PH, US Seek Enhanced Cooperation on Energy, People-To-People Ties

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Friday met with US State Secretary Michael Pompeo and sought ways to increase the Philippines-United States cooperation in areas of energy and people-to-people ties.

The meeting, held in Washington D.C., was a follow-up to the two foreign ministers’ phone conversation last October.

“Secretary Pompeo and Secretary Locsin also explored opportunities to increase people-to-people ties between our two countries, our longstanding commitment to human rights, and our cooperation to strengthen the Philippines’ energy security,” State Department Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino said in a statement.

The two top diplomats discussed “ongoing efforts to address regional issues such as the South China Sea, North Korea, and counterterrorism.”

Palladino said the two officials reaffirmed “the enduring US-Philippines alliance, including commitments under the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951.”

According to the DFA, Locsin also expressed Manila’s appreciation for the recent return of the Balangiga Bells during the meeting.

Locsin was accompanied by Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez. (PNA)