The vibrant spirit of American culture resonated through the halls of Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City as Ambassador MaryKay Carlson of the Embassy of the United States of America, led a jubilant celebration marking the 248th US Independence Day and the 70th Philippine-American Friendship Day. The event, which drew thousands from the diplomatic community, US Peace Corps, and other American missions across the Philippines, was a testament to the enduring bonds between the two nations.

Amidst a backdrop of a jazz-themed soirée, attendees reveled in a diverse musical showcase that ranged from Memphis blues to New York hip-hop, Detroit Motown to Nashville country, and New Orleans jazz. The Department of Foreign Affairs Chorale's stirring rendition of both the US and Philippine anthems set a patriotic tone, while Filipino artists such as Jed Madela dazzled the crowd with their extraordinary talent.

Ambassador Carlson highlighted the significance of the occasion, emphasizing the deep rooted friendship and shared values that unite Filipinos and Americans alike. "In the
United States, Independence Day is not just about fireworks and food; it's a celebration of our shared commitment to freedom, democracy, and human rights," she remarked. Reflecting on the past year's achievements, Carlson underscored the robust economic cooperation and security collaboration between the US and the Philippines. The announcement of the Luzon Economic Corridor and the success of the inaugural US Presidential Trade and Investment Mission were notable milestones that underscored the flourishing partnership.

Adding to the celebration's significance, DFA Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro delivered an inspiring speech, echoing the shared principles and achievements that mark the US-Philippine relationship. "Together, we remember the United States Declaration of Independence and honor its fundamental principles of freedom, equality, democracy, and self-determination. These same tenets shared by the Philippines and many other like-minded countries are as consequential to the founding of our nations as they are to the preservation of the rules-based international order today," Lazaro stated.

Lazaro further highlighted the crucial role of the alliance in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. "We recognize the pivotal role of our alliance in strengthening our own defense capabilities and safeguarding peace and security in the Indo-Pacific, more so now in the face of challenges to international law," she noted.

The evening also celebrated the expansion of cooperation to include other like-minded partners, a move aimed at maximizing complementarities in capabilities and resources. "Among the many firsts this year was the inaugural Philippines-US-Japan International Leaders Summit in Washington, DC, as mentioned by the Ambassador. A testament to our shared commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific," Lazaro added.

The festivities not only celebrated cultural exchange but also reinforced the enduring ties that bind the Philippines and the United States, marking a memorable evening of camaraderie and shared aspirations for the future.