UNITED States (US) President Donald Trump on Tuesday, July 23, 2025, voiced full support for President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s independent foreign policy, saying the Philippines must do what’s best for its people.
In a joint press conference at the White House on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Trump said he admired Marcos' determination to put the nation’s interests first, echoing a familiar message: “Make the Philippines great again.”
“I think he has to do what’s right for his country. I’ve always said, you know, make the Philippines great again. Do whatever you need to do,” Trump said, when asked about the country's foreign policy stance.
Marcos emphasized that the Philippines’ foreign policy was rooted in sovereignty and principle, not in playing geopolitical tug-of-war.
“There is no need to balance our relationship between the United States and China. Our foreign policy is an independent one,” Marcos said, as he reaffirmed the administration's commitment to partnerships based on mutual respect and international law.
Trump welcomed this approach, saying the United States respects Marcos’ freedom to act in his country's best interest.
“I don’t mind if he gets along with China, because we’re getting along with China very well,” Trump said.
Marcos, who will lead the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in 2026, noted that while the US remains the Philippines’ “strongest partner,” the country is also working to deepen ties with other nations that uphold democratic values and international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).
The visit marked a milestone in US-Philippine relations, with Trump extending high diplomatic honors by hosting Marcos at the historic Blair House, a privilege reserved for top world leaders.
“It’s a great honor to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines. Great family, great family legacy, and highly respected in his country,” Trump added.
The three-day official visit was held from July 20 to 22. (JGS/SunStar Philippines)