Ambassador Manuel Romualdez: 'It is in the interest of the United States to support the Philippines’ interests – from our military modernization and economic development to the welfare and protection of Filipinos in this country.'

Ambassador Romualdez delivers remarks on the role of public diplomacy in Philippines-US relations to open the event.

PH ENVOY TALKS PUBLIC DIPLOMACY, PHILIPPINES-US RELATIONS AT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY’S “AMBASSADORS UP-CLOSE” SERIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez touted the role of public diplomacy in enhancing Philippines-US relations during a fireside chat entitled “Public Diplomacy and the Future of US-Philippine Relations” on 27 January 2025, part of the “Ambassadors Up-Close” series of the American University School of International Service in Washington D.C.

Ambassador Romualdez engages the audience during a fireside chat on public diplomacy and Philippines-US relations at the American University.

“The message I convey remains consistent: it is in the interest of the United States to support the Philippines’ interests – from our military modernization and economic development to the welfare and protection of Filipinos in this country. We aim to be an equal partner of the US, ensuring that our alliance endures beyond administrations and even generations,” the Ambassador said in his remarks.

Audience members field questions to the Ambassador during the event.

The Ambassador also noted that the role of diplomats has evolved with the rise of mass and social media. “With a larger audience than ever before, it has become increasingly important for Foreign Service Officers to be skilled communicators.”

Ambassador Romualdez with former U.S. Ambassadors Piper Campbell and Tony Wayne (rightmost and leftmost, respectively) and members of the American University School of International Service.

The discussion, moderated by former U.S. Ambassadors Piper Campbell and Tony Wayne, touched on various aspects of Philippines-US relations, including the unique role of the Philippine diaspora in promoting the country. The Ambassador also shared his personal insights on managing Philippines-US relations through different administrations and challenges.

The event concluded with a networking reception over Filipino food, courtesy of renowned Filipino restaurant Purple Patch.

prphewdc250128