Pasay city: There is no expected major change in the deep defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States as the latter increases focus on the Western Hemisphere, said Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez. The Pentagon recently released its new National Defense Strategy, establishing homeland defense and the Western Hemisphere as a priority.

According to Philippines News Agency, Romualdez expressed confidence that the alliance, particularly the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the two nations, remains robust despite the US's strategic shift. He remarked, "I don't think that there's any major changes as far as our alliance is concerned, especially on our Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), mutual defense alliance with the United States." Romualdez further noted that the administration of President Donald Trump is concentrating on securing the Western Hemisphere, which he described as "rightly so" given its proximity to the US.

The envoy emphasized that the Philippines is actively collaborating with other allies to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This strategic approach aligns with the interests of both nations in ensuring a secure environment.

Meanwhile, US Embassy Charg© d'Affaires Robert Ewing reiterated the United States' commitment to its obligations under the MDT. Ewing highlighted the enduring relationship between the US and the Philippines, especially as they approach 80 years of diplomatic ties in 2026. "The United States stands with the Philippines and our other allies for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific," he said, underscoring the continued partnership between the two countries.