Davao, March 2, 2026 — As the United States and the Philippines celebrate 80 years of diplomatic ties, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing honored Filipino war veterans at a Congressional Gold Medal awarding ceremony, the first of its kind in Tagum and second time in Mindanao.  In Davao, he deepened economic and people-to-people ties in meetings with public and private sector leaders as well as students. 

In Tagum, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing joined Philippine Defense Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Reynaldo Mapagu, and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib at the 45th presentation of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal.  It is the highest civilian honor conferred by the U.S. Congress.  The awards delivered in Tagum were signed into law with the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015.  These Congressional Gold Medals recognize the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who fought shoulder-to-shoulder with U.S. forces to turn the tide in the Pacific during World War II.  The first-ever Congressional Gold Medal was approved by the Continental Congress in 1776 and awarded to George Washington, a remarkable example of the deeply interwoven history of the United States and the Philippines as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. 

“When their nation called, they stepped forward.  They answered,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing.  “And in doing so, they not only shaped the course of history but also forged the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the United States – a relationship built on shared sacrifice, mutual trust, and deeply held values.” 

“The number of living Filipino World War II veterans continues to decline with each passing day, but through commemoration activities and recognition such as the awarding of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II veterans, their heroic legacy will live on,” said Undersecretary Mapagu. 

In Davao, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing toured the National Museum of the Philippines-Davao in the People’s Park with City Councilors Rachel Zozobrado and Ragde Niño Ibuyan, Davao City Investment Promotion Center Officer in Charge April Marie Dayap, and a group of Philippine alumni of U.S. government exchange programs.  The visit was an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the rich heritage and natural resources of Davao City and Mindanao while also discussing partnership opportunities to promote U.S.-Philippines prosperity.  The Davao City officials expressed interest in exploring trade and investment opportunities, education and exchange programs, and revitalizing sister city relationships. 

Chargé d’Affaires Ewing also took a moment for a group photo with the City Councilors in front of the iconic Davao City Hall, which celebrates its 100th anniversary, sharing a connection with the U.S. Embassy in Manila, as both buildings were designed by renowned Filipino architect Juan M. Arellano.   

At a General Membership Meeting of the Mindanao chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing spoke about efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and expand energy cooperation, and underscored opportunities for two-way trade and investment including the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit, a Trump Administration priority initiative to promote investment into the United States. 

Chargé d’Affaires Ewing placed a spotlight on U.S.-Philippines education partnerships when visiting Filipino participants in the U.S. Embassy’s English Access Scholarship Program, a two-year, intensive after-school program that enhances academic and employment opportunities for public school students aged 13 to 15 through American excellence in English language instruction.  

“Chargé d’Affaires Ewing’s visit to the 50 English Access Scholarship Program students highlights the strong commitment to youth development and educational partnership.  His presence affirms the scholars’ potential and inspires them to strive for excellence, leaving a lasting impact,” said Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Reynante Solitario.   

“The United States and the Philippines share more than an ironclad Alliance,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing.  “We share a deep and enduring friendship and a commitment to partnerships that deliver concrete benefits for the American people while strengthening the bonds between our two nations.” 

Manila, February 6, 2026—U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing and Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez launched February 5 the logo commemorating the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Philippines in 2026.   The event marks the start of a yearlong campaign led by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and the Philippine Embassy and Consulates General in the United States to celebrate the unwavering ties between the United States and the Philippines as friends, partners, and allies. 

“Eighty years ago, our two nations formalized a partnership rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a deep commitment to democracy and freedom.  We are proud of what we have accomplished side by side—balikatan—from standing shoulder-to-shoulder in times of conflict, to advancing economic growth, to joining forces on health, education, and disaster response priorities,” Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Ewing said at the launch of the commemorative logo at the SM Mall of Asia Globe in Pasay City.  “The next chapters will be written by the innovative young people who are already building on our shared legacy.  We are confident that – as steadfast friends, partners in prosperity, and ironclad Allies – we will rise to even greater heights together for generations to come.” 

“Tonight, as we launch the official logo for the 80th anniversary of Philippines-U.S. diplomatic relations, we are not simply unveiling a design.  We are unveiling a story – eight decades of shared struggles, shared values, and shared aspirations.  This logo represents a living partnership that has evolved with time and has grown, adapted, and deepened,” Ambassador Romualdez said.  “What makes the Philippines-United States relationship truly special is that it is not only anchored in treaties and institutions.  It is anchored in people.  In many ways, we are not just allies – we are family,” he added. 

The United States and the Philippines established diplomatic relations on July 4, 1946. 

Historic people-to-people ties are the bedrock of the U.S.-Philippines relationship.  Around 375,000 Americans call the Philippines home while more than 4.6 million Filipinos and Filipino-Americans live, work, and study across the United States. 

The economic partnership continues to deliver results for Americans and Filipinos.  Through U.S. investments and foreign assistance, the United States and the Philippines promote mutual prosperity by bolstering energy security, securing critical supply chains, driving private investment in the Luzon Economic Corridor, and addressing public health challenges. 

This year also commemorates the 75th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine Alliance through the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty.  The Philippines is the United States’ oldest security treaty ally in the Indo-Pacific.  Through large-scale exercises, joint disaster response operations, and a shared commitment to supporting freedoms of navigation and overflight, free trade and unimpeded commerce, and freedoms of economic opportunity for South China Sea littoral nations, U.S. and Philippine forces work together to address shared challenges in the region.   

“Eighty years of shared commitment to security, including 75 years as Allies, has enabled our countries to achieve peace through deterrence, protect our citizens, and advance an open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific, including in the South China Sea,” Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Ewing added. 

In 2026, the United States also celebrates the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.  Under the Freedom 250 campaign, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines is organizing a series of programs to showcase the values of freedom, democracy, and innovation—values that underscore the U.S.-Philippines relationship. 

The launch of the commemorative logo of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations was made possible with the partnership of SM Supermalls.

Basco, Batanes, January 28, 2026—From January 19 to 20, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, through its Regional English Language Office, equipped 50 high school teachers from across Batanes with innovative American teaching approaches that integrate artificial intelligence (AI), critical thinking, and communication skills.

Led by two English Language Fellows who are American experts from the U.S. Department of State’s English Language Fellows program, the “Engaging Learners: Communication, Criticality, and the Future of Instruction” workshop highlighted the strong academic partnership between the United States and the Philippines as the two nations celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. 

“The U.S. Embassy is proud to invest in the educators of Batanes by sharing American excellence in education through expert facilitators and world-class resources,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna.  “By expanding their teaching methods, Batanes educators are ensuring that the next generation of Ivatans are well-prepared to enter the workforce—positioning the province for greater international collaboration and as strong future partners of American companies.”

“We are grateful to the U.S. Embassy for this multidisciplinary approach,” said Department of Education Senior Program Supervisor Kym Clyde H. Moro.  “The program provided our teachers with practical tools that will greatly improve how our students learn and communicate.  This is a meaningful investment in our teachers and the future of education in Batanes.”

Participants also developed “action projects” that integrate real-world data and hands-on learning, including lessons on Ivatan stone houses to promote community resilience, debates on future investment in Batanes using economic data, and cultural exchange activities comparing U.S. and Philippine traditions using American AI tools.  These projects ensure classroom learning is directly connected to local community challenges.  

The Regional English Language Office team also shared information on additional Embassy programming resources, which empower participants through first-hand exposure to American best practices.  By investing in education and innovation, the United States and the Philippines continue to work together to make both countries more prosperous.
 

Manila, January 12, 2026—The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines announces three new cohorts of the English Access Program Scholarship in Davao City, Bohol, and Bataan, benefiting 150 high-achieving Filipino students.  The program is a partnership between the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office, the Philippine Department of Education, and public schools in each location.   Students and teachers selected through a competitive, merit-based process gain invaluable skills from American innovation and excellence in English language content and instruction, preparing them to enter the workforce.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the two-year, intensive after school program strengthens English proficiency while building digital, leadership, and critical thinking skills among public school students aged 13 to 15.   Participants also participate in cultural activities, including celebrating American excellence in partnership with U.S. officials as part of America’s 250th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026.

“By focusing on advanced literacy and professional-level communication, we are preparing these high-achieving students for the demands of the global workforce,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna. “Their success is a direct investment in the future of the U.S.-Philippine relationship and our shared goals—ultimately making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

On January 8, the Regional English Language Office launched the first 2026 cohort at Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School in Bunawan, Davao City, with 50 exceptional students joining from various schools across the area.

“The English Access Scholarship Program plays a significant role in raising the English proficiency of learners, especially those from far-flung schools.  Through well-structured weekly lessons, interactive, learner-centered activities, and support from mentors, the program builds learners’ confidence and communication skills in English, empowering them to express themselves more effectively and opening wider academic and future opportunities,” said Department of Education Davao City Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Sagot.

The second cohort launched on January 10 in Panglao, Bohol, with 50 students at Lourdes National High School.

The third cohort, also with 50 students, will launch on January 17 at the City of Balanga National High School in Balanga City, Bataan.

Since its inception in 2004, over 200,000 students in more than 85 countries have received the English Access Program Scholarship, including nearly 1,500 alumni in the Philippines. Educators in the program also join a global network of Access teachers to strengthen their instructional skills through American English excellence to better serve their communities.

Batac, Ilocos Norte, November 19, 2025—Three American experts from the U.S. Department of State’s English Language Fellows program trained 40 pre-service teachers from across the Philippines in Project-Based Learning, or PBL, a teaching method widely adopted in the United States where students learn by focusing on real-world problem-solving through hands-on projects. 

Organized by the U.S. Embassy in Manila’s Regional English Language Office (RELO) and Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) from October 22 to 26 in Batac, Ilocos Norte, the “Moving Ideas to Impact: A Project-Based Learning Design Workshop” promoted PBL as a student-centered pedagogical approach rooted in the American educational philosophy that education must be active and connected to real life.

By focusing on practical methodologies drawn from American educational standards, the workshop equipped the next generation of Filipino educators with knowledge and tools to shift from traditional, lecture-based instruction to leading innovative, student-centered classrooms that encourage research, analysis, creativity, collaboration, and curiosity at a young age.

“The success of this workshop is a clear demonstration of our nations’ shared dedication to building educational excellence,” said U.S. Embassy RELO Officer Jeff McIlvenna.  “By investing in these 40 pre-service teachers, we are strengthening our bilateral ties and ensuring that American innovations in education, like PBL, will multiply across Filipino classrooms and help improve learning among young Filipinos.”

By the end of the workshop, each participant crafted a Community-Connected PBL Blueprint—a ready-to-implement unit plan designed to address a local challenge or opportunity within their home communities. “Each participant leaves as a ‘multiplier of knowledge’ who will shape their own institutions, preparing the next generation to be globally competitive and community-engaged citizens,” McIlvenna added.  “This focus on immediate, tangible impact ensures the teachers’ newly acquired skills are applied directly to address needs in the Philippine educational system and the local community.” This initiative reinforces the enduring partnership between the United States and the Philippines ahead of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine bilateral relations and the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence in 2026.  U.S. English language programs emphasize education as a critical pillar of cooperation and innovation through the development of English language learning and effective communication skills in the next generation of educators and their students.   

Clark Air Base, Pampanga, November 15, 2025—In the immediate aftermath of Super Typhoon Fung-wong (Uwan), the United States continues to answer the call for assistance from one of our closest friends, partners, and allies, the Philippines.  Striking less than a week after Typhoon Kalmaegi’s (Tino) devastation, Super Typhoon Fung-wong has further strained relief efforts on the ground.  The United States continues to support Philippine-led efforts to save lives, alleviate suffering, and address urgent needs.

To this end, the United States is providing an additional $1.5 million (Php87 million) in emergency, life-saving assistance in support of the Philippine government-led response, bringing the total U.S. response to Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-wong to $2.5 million (Php145 million), including support for logistics, emergency shelter, water, sanitation resources, and the management of evacuation centers.

As millions of Filipinos face the challenges left by these overlapping disasters, including the Cebu earthquake in September, our continued rapid response stands as a testament to the depth of the enduring ties between the United States and the Philippines, especially in times of crisis.

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

In the wake of Typhoon Kalmaegi’s (Tino’s) devastation, the United States is augmenting the Philippine-led response efforts. Through the delivery of emergency shelter, logistics services, and safe water and sanitation, the United States is supporting communities hardest hit by the storm, many of which are still recovering from successive storms and the Cebu Earthquake in September.

The United States and the Philippines are not only ironclad allies—we are friends and partners bound by a shared history, common values, and a steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. As millions of Filipinos face the challenges left by these disasters, including the loss of family and loved ones, our rapid response stands as a testament to the depth and resilience of our enduring ties, especially in times of crisis. The United States is committed to supporting Philippine-led efforts, working together to save lives, alleviate suffering, and help communities recover from these disasters. To this end, the United States will provide $1 million in immediate life-saving assistance.

With another severe storm forecast to impact the Philippines in the coming days, U.S. disaster assistance will remain closely coordinated with the Government of the Philippines and local organizations to ensure timely and effective relief for those most in need.

Manila, September 12, 2025—On September 12, the U.S. government announced approximately Php13.8 billion ($250 million) in foreign assistance to the Philippines that will strengthen health systems, improve disease detection and response capabilities, and enhance maternal and child health services in the country – measures that will make the United States and the Philippines safer, stronger, and more prosperous. 

This new funding raises the total of recently announced U.S. foreign assistance committed to the Philippines to more than Php17 billion ($313 million), following an earlier announcement of Php3 billion ($63 million) in foreign assistance funding to support Philippine energy sector resilience, combat illegal fishing in the South China Sea, and deepen private sector development in the Luzon Economic Corridor. 

The U.S. commitment to improve health outcomes in the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific region focuses on critical areas of Tuberculosis Control and Prevention, Global Health Security, Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition, and other areas important to both countries’ health security.  The funding supports key initiatives such as supply chain management, data and information systems, and laboratory strengthening. 

“This funding underscores the United States’ unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of the Filipino people and demonstrates our long-term partnership in addressing shared challenges,” said U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, adding, “Together, we are building a healthier, more resilient future.” 

The U.S. Embassy Foreign Assistance Section will lead the implementation of these initiatives in priority areas.
 

Baguio City, September 4, 2025—On September 3, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong led a ceremony commemorating the 80th Victory Day at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Camp John Hay.  Together, they honored the shared sacrifices of Filipino and Allied forces during World War II and celebrated the enduring ties between the Philippines and the United States. 

Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. served as the guest of honor. 

Victory Day marks the end of World War II in the Philippines.  In the 80 years since standing shoulder-to-shoulder in battle, the Philippines and the United States have grown ever closer as friends, partners, and allies. 

“The liberation of the Philippines during World War II was a triumph of the extraordinary bravery of Allied forces and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people.  From resistance movements that defied occupation to countless sacrifices made, their legacy is the freedom we cherish today,” Ambassador Carlson said in her remarks.  “This shared struggle forged a special relationship between our two nations, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of future generations of Filipinos and Americans.” 

“That surrender marked not only the end of World War II in the Philippines but also the triumph of courage, strength in spirit, and hope over tyranny and despair.  For us in Baguio, this is more than just an event written in textbooks—it is part of our city’s living memory, a legacy carved into our very identity,” Mayor Magalong said.  “As we remember that day and its significance to the world, we also honor the extraordinary sacrifices of the men and women—Filipino, American, and other allies—who fought courageously to restore peace and freedom.” 

“Today must not merely be an ordinary memorial day.  It must be a day of deep reflection,” Secretary Teodoro said.  “If we do not learn from the lessons of the past, and think as much as we want that the world is a static place, if we do not have resolve, purpose, and unity in action in all facets of public and private life, even with individual behavior and discipline, then we have no business honoring those who have shed their blood.”

More than 300 guests attended the ceremony, including Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu.  Veterans, members of the diplomatic corps, the media, and partners from the public and private sectors were also present. 

Ambassador Carlson joined Secretary Teodoro, Mayor Magalong, NHCP Chairperson Jose, and PVAO Undersecretary Mapagu in presenting coins to living World War II veterans Angelo Viloria Andrada, Ernesto Carreon Luis, Florence Rimando Marasigan, and Sixta Quiñones Favila to honor their courage and invaluable contributions to freedom and democracy.  Luis led the solemn ringing of the ceremonial bell at 12:10 p.m., marking the exact minute of General Yamashita’s surrender.  Churches across Baguio City also rang their bells in unison. 

During the event, Ambassador Carlson announced the launch of a virtual tour of the historic U.S. Ambassador’s Residence.  Developed by the U.S. Department of State, the virtual tour is free and accessible online through the OBO VR app in the Apple Store or through the following link: https://hullfilm360.com/projects/state/baguio/web/360tour/index.html.  “This initiative preserves our shared heritage and invites future generations to reflect on our past and help build a hopeful tomorrow,” Ambassador Carlson said. 

Following the ceremony, Ambassador Carlson hosted a reception celebrating U.S.-Philippine friendship and the 249th anniversary of U.S. independence.  “We begin a new chapter as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026,” Ambassador Carlson said.  “The friendship, partnership, and alliance between the United States and the Philippines is a crucial part of that story because of the values we share such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”   

Manila, August 8, 2025—The U.S. government is providing an additional Php13.8 million ($250,000) in funding to deliver emergency shelter assistance and hygiene kits to more than 3,000 families, or approximately 15,800 persons, remaining in evacuation centers in Rizal, Laguna, Bulacan, and Pampanga following severe flooding in July. 

This latest assistance brings the total amount of U.S. humanitarian support for disaster response efforts in the Philippines to Php27.6 million ($500,000). 

Through this new tranche of funding, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will distribute shelter-grade tarpaulins, shelter repair kits, and essential household supplies to families whose homes were damaged or destroyed.  Each shelter repair kit contains basic construction tools and materials to help families begin rebuilding their homes.

To promote health and sanitation and improve living conditions in evacuation centers, families will also receive hygiene kits containing soap, buckets, and cleaning supplies.  In addition to distributing relief items, IOM will also monitor the condition of hygiene and sanitation facilities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected families. 

“Although flooding has subsided in most areas, thousands of families remaining in evacuation centers continue to face significant challenges,” U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Y. Robert Ewing said.  “We are grateful to be working alongside our partners, including IOM, the World Food Programme (WFP), the Philippines’ Office of Civil Defense, and the DSWD, to help affected families recover and rebuild.” 

The U.S. government earlier provided Php13.8 million ($250,000) in funding that supported WFP in delivering 47,700 DSWD family food packs that benefitted over 200,000 persons across Northern and Central Luzon. 

U.S. military air assets, alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines, also supported Philippine-led operations to deliver 6,300 DSWD food packs for 18,000 persons in Batanes.