President Marcos Arrives in Washington, D.C. for Strategic Talks with President Trump

Washington, The Gulf Observer: Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in the United States capital early Monday (Manila time) for a three-day official visit aimed at deepening the Philippines’ strategic partnership with the U.S., particularly in defense and economic cooperation.

President Marcos’ aircraft landed at Joint Base Andrews at 2:48 p.m. Sunday (2:48 a.m. Monday in Manila), where he was warmly received by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez and U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson.

Marking a significant diplomatic milestone, President Marcos becomes the first Southeast Asian leader to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump since the latter began his second term in January.

Before departing Manila, President Marcos underscored that his visit seeks to reaffirm the longstanding alliance between the Philippines and the United States. He emphasized the importance of strengthening security cooperation, increasing trade and investment, and ensuring regional peace and stability.

“My visit to Washington, D.C., and most importantly, my meeting with President Trump, is essential to continuing to advance our national interests and strengthening our alliance,” the President stated.

The two leaders are expected to engage in substantive discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in economic development, trade, and regional security. A key topic is the recently imposed 20 percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports, which President Marcos aims to address during the visit.

He also expressed the country’s readiness to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement that supports strong, future-oriented, and mutually beneficial collaboration.

Additionally, President Marcos will meet with American business leaders to explore opportunities that could further boost the Philippine economy.

This visit is taking place at the formal invitation of President Trump and builds on recent high-level engagements between the two countries, including the visits of senior U.S. defense and intelligence officials to Manila and ongoing Congressional exchanges.