By Neal Chamberlain
The United States and the Philippines have a robust relationship anchored by a rich history of alliance, Willy C. Gaa, Philippine ambassador to the United States, said Tuesday.
'The relationship between the Philippines and the United States is based on shared values and a common vision,' Gaa said. He was speaking on campus as part of the Kennedy Center''s Ambassadorial Insights lecture series.
The two countries find themselves on the same side of many conflicts helping one another to continually move forward, he said.
'From fighting the war against terrorism to the war against poverty, the partnership between the Philippines and the United States is well-based, complex, and multi-faceted,' Gaa said.
A rich history of fighting shoulder-to-shoulder in battle and struggling together in the war against terrorism acts as a solid anchor in the relationship between the two different nations.
The United States and the Philippines focus to maintain freedom and democracy. Both strive to increase economic ties, and respect for the faith of others, Gaa said.
'The Philippines today is a free environment for people of various faiths and denominations,' Gaa said. 'There are a half - million Mormons in the Philippines.'
The treaties, organizations, and alliances between the two countries have evolved with time and have created a positive relationship. Gaa said the relationship is a partnership between friends and equals, which continues to be strengthened.
'The Philippines is the twenty-fifth largest export market and the twentieth largest supplier of the United States,' Gaa said. 'U.S. investment in the country over the last four years were mostly in IT and IT labeled businesses.'
The U.S. is also the largest foreign investor in the Philippines'' economy.
The Philippines offers more than technology, Gaa said.
'We want to see more Americans visit the Philippines,' Gaa said. 'We have some of the best beaches in the world.'
The Philippines are at the forefront of great economic and security-related improvements, which are being facilitated with the support of the United States.
'I need to say with utmost confidence that the Philippine - United States strategy partnership shall continue over the years and the days ahead,' Gaa said.