HOUSE leaders today emphasized the rising prominence of the Philippines in the Indo-Pacific region, noting the historic significance of the first-ever trilateral summit involving the United States, Japan, and the Philippines.
Lanao del Norte 1st District Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, Davao Oriental 2nd District Rep. Cheeno Miguel D. Almario, and Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong underscored the need to reinforce the nation’s growing significance in regional affairs.
“The acknowledgment of the Philippines as a key partner by the U.S. and Japan is a testament to our nation’s rising stature and its contributions to regional stability, security, and economic development,” Dimaporo, vice chairman of the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea, said.
Dimaporo, chairman of the House Committee on Muslim Affairs, said the meeting in Washington, D.C. among U.S. President Joe Biden, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. served to reaffirm the Philippines’ position as an “essential ally” in the Indo-Pacific.
He said that President Marcos’ effective foreign policy approach of being “a friend to all and an enemy to none” has elevated the position of the Philippines on the regional stage.
“President Marcos’ leadership has fostered strong partnerships and facilitated regional cooperation,” Dimaporo said.
Almario, a member of the House Committees on National Defense and Security and on Strategic Intelligence, joined in supporting the trilateral summit, saying, “The Philippines’ active participation in the summit demonstrates our commitment to fostering strong alliances and promoting regional stability.”
“This event marks a significant step forward in our efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance cooperation in the region,” Almario added.
Similarly, Adiong highlighted the summit’s strategic significance for the Philippines.
“As a nation situated in the heart of the Indo-Pacific, the Philippines plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s future,” Adiong, a member of the House Committee on National Defense, said.
Adiong continued, “The trilateral summit underscores our nation’s growing influence and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional challenges and pursuing shared objectives.”
