Arrival Statement by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Upon His Return from His Official Visit to the United States of America

I have just ended my visit to Washington, D.C. wherein I attended the first
Philippines-U.S.-Japan Trilateral Summit with U.S. President Joe Biden and
Japanese Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio.

During our meeting, we reaffirmed our commitment to a peaceful, secure, and
prosperous Indo-Pacific. We are guided by our shared values of democracy,
the rule of law, human rights, and gender equality.

We explored ways of enhancing our cooperation in a number of areas of
mutual concern, including in enhancing economic resilience and security,
promoting inclusive growth and development, addressing climate change, and
maritime cooperation.

During our meeting, the U.S. and Japan announced their support for the
infrastructure development and connectivity in the Philippines, through the
Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI); the
implementation of Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) in the Philippines;
workforce development for the semiconductor industry; capacity-building in
the peaceful uses of nuclear energy; and the Philippines’ membership in the
Minerals Security Partnership Forum.

We also exchanged views on a number of regional security issues of mutual
concern.

I took the opportunity to update President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida
on the latest developments in the South China Sea, including the recent
incident at Ayungin Shoal.

I also had a bilateral meeting with President Biden, wherein we reaffirmed our
commitment to the long-standing Philippines-U.S. alliance.

On the sidelines of the visit, I also had the opportunity to meet with Ultra Safe
Nuclear Corporation to discuss our commitment to diversify our energy mix to
the promotion of clean and energy sources.

Additionally, I engaged in fruitful discussions with U.S. technology giant,
Google, regarding internet infrastructures aimed at supporting our IT-BPM
industry through secured data flows.

Our conversation also delved into the crucial role of U.S. companies in
deploying redundant direct subsea cable links and providing training to
Filipinos in digital literacy, cybersecurity, and Cloud Storage solutions.

Addressing the U.S. business sector through a Business Forum co-organized
with the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council and with the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce, as well as at the Business Reception with the U.S.-Philippine
Society, I reiterated a clear message, the Philippines is open to U.S.
businesses.

Furthermore, I emphasized the trilateral cooperation between the U.S., Japan,
and the Philippines is a natural progression of the strong relations between
close allies.

Over the past year, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency has led to
activities worth over $500 million to develop high quality infrastructure in the
Philippines. Focusing on renewable energy, smart grids, and healthcare
solutions.

Similarly, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation has
pledged to mobilize private sector investment in critical sectors such as
infrastructure and renewable energy with a new $20 million loan, earmarked
for affordable housing in the Philippines.

Moreover, the recent U.S. Presidential trade and investment mission
showcased over $1 billion in combined investments from 22 U.S. companies
and organizations during a visit to Manila in March 2024.

This mission underscores the strong economic ties between our nations and
the immense potential for further collaboration.

Looking ahead, the upcoming Indo-Pacific Business Forum scheduled for May
21 this year, in Manila, promises to be a significant platform for fostering
infrastructure development and reinforcing economic ties in the region.

With over 500 senior executives and government officials in attendance, this
forum will serve as a catalyst for driving investment and growth in emerging
economies.

In conclusion, I’m confident that our collaborative efforts will pave the way for
a brighter, more prosperous future for the Indo-Pacific region.

Together we can harness the power of infrastructure and innovation to drive
sustainable development and economic growth.

Thank you.

—END—