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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'We are family': Austin says PH, US more than allies

'We are family': Austin says PH, US more than allies

Published Jul 30, 2024 02:59 am

United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III likened the US’ and the Philippines’ relationship to a “family” as he acknowledged the strengthening of the two countries’ alliance in the past years.

PBBM_Austin_Blinken.jpgPresident Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (center) meets US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (left) and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (right) during a joint courtesy call at the Malacañan Palace for the 4th Philippines-US Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. (Marianne Bermudez/PPA POOL)

Speaking during his and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meeting with President Marcos at Malacañan Palace, Washington’s defense chief underscored the common interests and values that bind the Philippines and the US.

“And I've said a number of times that we're more than allies, we're family and it always feels that way when, you know, I'm working with our colleagues,” he said, addressing the President.

“You know, we have common interests, common values and so I think we've done a lot for the last three and a half years to continue to strengthen our alliance and we look forward to continuing to work with you and your team to move even further,” Austin added.

The two high-ranking US officials are in Manila for the fourth PH-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, which will include meeting with Marcos, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., and DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo for high-level foreign and defense talks.

Austin, who offered his condolences for those affected by Super Typhoon Carina, also thanked Marcos for the “warm welcome” and his “leadership.”

“Again, it's been a great three and a half years and I look forward to another three and a half or another four in building --- strengthening this relationship. So, thanks,” he added.

Earlier, the DFA said that in this year’s 2+2 Dialogue, which was hosted by Teodoro and Manalo, “the four secretaries are expected to discuss how to further enhance our two countries’ ironclad commitment to this alliance while enabling a common program in support of the rules-based international order, enhanced economic ties, broad-based prosperity, and solutions to evolving regional and global security challenges.”

The dialogue came amid the Philippines posturing for better defense capabilities with the help of its allies, including the United States and Japan, as it continues to stand against China’s aggressive actions in the contested and resource-rich West Philippine Sea.

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