WASHINGTON, D.C.

—United States (US) President Joe Biden said he will send  a “first of its kind" presidential trade and investment mission to the Philippines. (From left) President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden during the bilateral meeting at the Oval Office inside the White House in Washington D.C. on May 01, 2023. (KJ Rosales/PPA POOL)
Biden made the pronouncement during his meeting with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. at the Oval Office inside the White House on Monday afternoon, May 1 (US time). The US leader noted Manila and Washington’s “strong partnership” and “deep friendship, one that has been enriched by millions of Filipino-Americans and the communities all across the United States.” Biden committed to step up America’s support in a wide range of issues, including climate change mitigation and economy. “We’re tackling climate change, we’re accelerating our countries’ chances… and we’re standing up for our shared democratic values and workers’ rights…and together we’re deepening our economic cooperation,” Biden told Marcos. "And we’re gonna announce today that I’m sending a first of its kind presidential trade and investment mission to the Philippines," he added. According to the US President, this would draw on the strength of their partnership to promote enduring economic growth and prosperity in both countries, and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The Presidential Trade and Investment Mission to the Philippines aims to enhance US companies’ investment in the Philippines’ innovation economy, its clean energy transition and critical minerals sector, and the food security of its people. Marcos thanked Biden for America’s assistance and sought to strengthen “alliances and partnership in the face of the new economy that we are facing post-pandemic.” Monday’s Oval Office meeting also included discussions on security, education, and other initiatives as part of Marcos’ five-day official visit to Washington.