Metro Manila, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has thanked United States President Joe Biden for his support to the Philippines and statesmanship in dropping out of the presidential race.
“President Biden’s decision to withdraw from his candidacy is a demonstration of genuine statesmanship,” said Marcos in a post on X (former Twitter).
The chief executive also thanked Washington for its continuous support to Manila amid regional tensions and challenges.
“We thank him for his constant and unwavering support for the Philippines in a delicate and difficult time. We wish him well for the rest of his presidency and for all his future endeavors,” said Marcos.
Under Biden, the United States reaffirmed its ‘ironclad commitment’ to defend the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.
It was also during his term when the two countries decided to expand the sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
Early this year, Biden sent a Presidential Trade and Investment Mission to the Philippines to enhance economic ties with the Philippines. Manila also hosted the Indo-Pacific Business Forum.
In a statement, Biden said he will focus his time and energy to the remaining months of his presidency and has endorsed the candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris.
