UNITED STATES President Joe Biden joined Filipinos in celebrating the Philippines’ 123rd Independence Day in a video message over the weekend.
In his first Philippine Independence Day message as the U.S. commander-in-chief, Biden cited the enduring friendship between American and the Philippines, adding that the two nations must continue working together to address challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
We celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations with the Philippines and the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippines Alliance. @POTUS: “Our people are forever connected through our deep bonds and shared sacrifices of valor, of family, and of friendship.” #FriendsPartnersAllies pic.twitter.com/24FnNZq7UN
— Department of State (@StateDept) June 11, 2021
“The Philippines and the United States share so much history and our people are forever connected through our deep bonds and shared sacrifices of valor, of family and of friendship,” he said in a message from the White House on Saturday, June 12.
“As we honor this joyful of independence and friendship, let’s also look to the future, at the challenges our two countries must continue to work to take on together, from defeating this pandemic and strengthening the global preparedness for the next one, to advancing the free and open Indo-Pacific region for all peoples,” he added.
Biden acknowledged the contributions of over four million Filipino Americans living in the U.S.
“They make invaluable contributions to communities all across our country. They enrich the American character, making our nation stronger and more vibrant,” he said.
The U.S. president also noted that the two nations will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of Philippines-U.S. diplomatic relations and the 70th anniversary of the Philippines-U.S. alliance this year.
“This year, our nations are also celebrating two momentous anniversaries — our 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations and the 70th anniversary of our strong alliance,” said Biden.
He added, “I hope that friendship between the Philippines and the United States will continue to be a source of strength for both our nations through all the decades.”
Likewise, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the close relationship between Manila and Washington.
“Our long and deeply interwoven history stands as a strong foundation for our enduring alliance, and our close relationship is rooted in our shared interests and rich people-to-people ties,” he said in a separate statement.
“Together, as friends, allies and partners, our two countries will strive to ensure a more peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” Blinken added.
