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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Outgoing US envoy says alliance with PH 'stronger' than ever

Outgoing US envoy says alliance with PH 'stronger' than ever

Published Jan 15, 2026 10:47 am
Outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson
Outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson
Washington's outgoing envoy in Manila highlighted the strength of the United States-Philippines' relations—from trade to military—as she concluded her tour of duty in the country.
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said the US-Philippines' alliance "is truly ironclad, and our shared commitment has never been stronger," during a farewell reception attended by members of the diplomatic community as well as Philippine government officials, among others, on Wednesday night, Jan. 14.
"It has been truly a privilege, the privilege of a lifetime, to serve as US ambassador here," Carlson said.
According to her, "people-to-people ties are what form the basis of our enduring bond, the enduring bond between our two nations."
She cited the over 1.3 million US citizens who visited the Philippines in 2024 alone, which she said deepened the connections of family, friendship, and shared history.
Carlson stressed that the US sees the Philippines "as a place to trade, invest, innovate, and grow," and the trilateral Luzon Economic Corridor initiative among the US-Philippines-Japan is expected to increase trade and achieve transportation, energy, and logistics efficiency across the country.
In terms of security and defense, Carlson highlighted the huge number of joint military activities between the two countries.
She said that in each year of the past three years as the ambassador, she witnessed 500 combined joint military activities, including the largest-ever Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercise.
"Together we have defended international law in the South China Sea, upholding the rights of the fisherfolk," she said proudly, adding that there is also the new foreign assistance section that was established and helped in the strengthening of energy resilience and the fight against illegal fishing in the Philippines. 
"These efforts are building a brighter, more prosperous future for Filipinos and Americans," Carlson said.
"As much of an honor as it has been to be the US ambassador, it was even more so to serve with all of you and to have strengthened the bonds that connect our people," she added. "Our friendship is strong, our partnership vibrant, and our future bright."

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