Metro Manila, Philippines — Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez expressed optimism about strengthening the Philippines-US defense alliance as Donald Trump prepares for a fresh term.
Romualdez, who was ambassador during Trump’s first term, highlighted the former president’s acknowledgment of the critical role of military ties between the two nations.
“During President Trump’s first term, it was made very clear that our defense alliance held significant importance,” he told NewsWatch Plus.
Romualdez recalled a major diplomatic challenge in 2020 when then President Rodrigo Duterte announced plans to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the US. He noted that Duterte later reversed this decision, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing the value of the agreement.
“Fortunately, President Duterte saw the wisdom in maintaining the VFA, as it served not only our interest but also that of the United States,” he said.
Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden, the ambassador said, both nations continue to build on the alliance established by their predecessors.
He referenced assurances of then US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) is “ironclad,” and highlighted the continued implementation of the VFA and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which was signed in 2016.
“This commitment to the MDT and related agreements is stronger than ever,” Romualdez said. “I’ve spoken to officials from the Trump administration, and they assured me that these policies would likely stay consistent, possibly even improving under the next term.”
PH commitment to self-reliant defense
Addressing concerns about potential US demands for increased payments for American troop presence in the Philippines, Romualdez dismissed the notion of the Philippines “paying” for protection.
Trump earlier made calls for Japan and South Korea to increase their contributions but clarified the unique strategic partnership between the Philippines and US.
“The word ‘payment’ is not appropriate in this context. Our role in the Asia-Pacific, particularly in the South China Sea, is essential for regional security and for protecting trade routes that are crucial to the United States,” he said. “President Trump understands this, and it’s in both countries’ interest to sustain this relationship.”
He said the Philippine focus is on establishing a credible defense system and modernizing its armed forces, describing this approach as one of partnership rather than dependence.
“Hindi tayo humihingi o nagpapalimos [We are neither asking or begging]. We’re aiming to modernize our armed forces to be a reliable partner, not just to pay for protection,” Romualdez said.
