Amid the harsh words, Goldberg underscores strong US-PH ties

From InterAksyon (Oct 6): Amid the harsh words, Goldberg underscores strong US-PH ties

US Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg, who is soon ending a three-year tenure just as Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte mounts a continuing tirade against Washington, chose to focus on the strength of seven decades of cooperation between the allies, and the US' commitment to its partner in Asia.

In his final address to the members of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham), Goldberg underscored the strong US-Philippine relationship and reflected upon his three-year tenure as envoy to the Philippines.

The Ambassador was the guest of honor at AmCham’s meeting held on October 5 at the Manila Hotel.

In his remarks, Ambassador Goldberg said, “The fundamentals of bilateral cooperation with the Philippines and our relationship with the Filipino people remain strong.  Our history of cooperation spans 70 years, and our commitment to this country remains unchanged."

The Philippines, he added, "is a key strategic partner of the United States and our military alliance, development assistance, and commercial cooperation continue.  Much like you, we are relying on strong ties developed through our common endeavors as well as building effective relationships with new partners to ensure productive future cooperation.”

Noting that AmCham is “the voice of American business in the Philippines,” Goldberg stressed AmCham’s role in bilateral cooperation, and cited examples of contributions made by US companies to disaster relief and development, education, and the environment.

His speech comes at a particularly eventful week: on Oct. 4, the Armed Forces of the Philippines began its Phiblex joint exercises with US forces, just days after Duterte said he was seriously considering making it the last war games between Manila and Washington.

A local think tank gave Duterte unsolicited advice: beyond the exposure to advanced military technology, the joint exercises allow troops from both sides to respond quickly to non-military challenges, especially during disasters.

Duterte, reiterating an apology to the Jewish community in a subsequent event, told President Obama he can "go to hell" as he slammed anew what he described as a defense partnership of minimal advantage to the Philippines.

http://interaksyon.com/article/133062/amid-the-harsh-words-goldberg-underscores-strong-us-ph-ties