President Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to peace and diplomacy as the nation marked the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila on Saturday, Feb. 22.

In his speech at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Taguig City, the President emphasized the country's historical experience with war and its enduring choice to pursue peaceful resolution of conflicts.

He likewise stressed that diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation have allowed the Philippines to maintain a stable and peaceful region.

"The Philippines, deeply familiar with the atrocities brought about by war between and among nations, has always chosen the path of peace, and I can assure all of you that we will continue to do so," he said before World War II veterans.

"Through diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation, we have successfully maintained a region that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous," he added.

Marcos highlighted the importance of working with international partners to ensure continued peace and security.

"We have and will continue to work with partners and the international community in building bridges, foreign solutions, [and] preserving our global commons," he said.

The President acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in the support of international allies.

"The Philippines recognizes challenges that lie ahead and is assured that we can continue to count on the help of friends, as we have done so over the last 80 years," he said.

Enduring PH-US ties

President Marcos particularly highlighted the Philippines' long-standing alliance with the United States (US) who came to Manila's rescue against the Japanese forces eight decades ago.

He described the relationship between the Philippines and the US as firmly anchored on peace, democracy, fairness, social progress, and justice.

Marcos also pointed out that the relationship between the two countries has endured "in peace, and in war, through natural disasters and pandemics."

President Marcos emphasized that the Philippines and the US share common goals, particularly in national security and economic prosperity.

"Our two nations are committed to the preservation and enhancement of national security, the attainment of economic prosperity, and the promotion of the rights and wellbeing of our peoples," he said.

"Whether we gather, as we do today, to remember the liberation of Manila some 80 years ago, or during joint military exercises as our armed forces will in a few weeks’ time for Balikatan, there is no doubt that our relationship is robust," he added.

During the same event, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson made a similar remark, saying the ties between the Philippines and the US, anchored on shared values, continue to grow.

"Our shared experience fighting side by side 80 years ago continues to provide meaning and focus for the modern US-Philippine Alliance," she said.

"Our bilateral ties are stronger than ever as we work together today to address shared challenges ranging from maritime security and disaster response to complex 21st-Century concerns such as those we encounter in the space and cyber domains," she added.

The Battle of Manila in February 1945 marked the end of Japanese occupation but not without thousands of Filipino civilians and American and Japanese soldiers dying in the conflict and leaving the once-thriving capital the most devastated city in the Pacific.

The Manila American Cemetery, the largest of its kind is the final resting place of over 17,000 American service members and commemorates nearly 36,300 individuals missing in action. Among those honored are Medal of Honor recipients, Filipino scouts, and families who served together in battle.