Flags of the Philippines and the United States (Unsplash)

Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed his gratitude to the United States (US) House of Representatives after it approved an $8.1-billion emergency aid package for key allies in the Indo-Pacific, which includes the Philippines.

In a statement on Tuesday, April 23, Romualdez lauded the passage of the groundbreaking measure during a time of escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“This is a momentous occasion that underscores the enduring partnership between our nations and the unwavering commitment of the US to fostering stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific,” he said.

“We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan effort that has led to the approval of this crucial assistance, which will undoubtedly strengthen the security and resilience of our region,” he added.

Voting 385-34, the US House passed the $8.1-billion bill, which will allocate nearly $4 billion in security assistance to Taiwan, the Philippines, and other Indo-Pacific allies. This also includes $1.9 billion for the replenishment of US stocks that have been depleted to aid Asian allies, and $3.3 billion for submarine infrastructure and additional provisions.

Romualdez, who last week led the Philippine delegation in its lobbying efforts to US legislators, particularly thanked California Rep. Darrell Issa for pushing an amendment that aims to ensure that the security assistance will reach the Philippines.

Issa’s amendment—which was eventually adopted into the bill—urged the US State Department to allocate $500 million in Foreign Military Financing to the Philippines.

"The passage of this amendment underscores the deepening partnership between our nations and highlights the United States' commitment to enhancing the defense capabilities of the Philippines," noted Romualdez.

The approval of this bipartisan measure—which means it’s supported by both Republicans and Democrats—comes on the heels of extensive deliberations between Philippine and American legislators at Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.

"The constructive dialogue and shared vision exhibited during our meetings exemplify the enduring partnership between our nations,” the Speaker said.

“This aid package symbolizes our collective resolve to fortify the bonds of friendship and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” he continued.

Romualdez pointed out that this aid package reaffirms America’s commitment to address the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

With the bill’s approval, Romualdez is confident that this would set the stage for further collaboration between the US and the Philippines.

"As we navigate complex global challenges, the bonds forged through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation will serve as the cornerstone of our shared aspirations for a brighter future,” he said.

The $8.1-billion assistance to the Indo-Pacific is integral to the $95.3-billion emergency aid package, which includes vital support for key US allies like Ukraine and Israel.

This bill will now proceed to the Senate for a final vote.