President Trump greeted Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House Tuesday to discuss their countries’ relationship.
“We love them, and we respect their leader,” Mr. Trump responded to a shouted question about his message to the Philippines.
When asked about a trade deal being struck between the two countries, Mr. Trump said, “I think we will.”
Mr. Marcos has had a three-day U.S. visit, also meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday to talk about territorial conflicts in the South China Sea featuring boats from China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia Brunei and Taiwan.
Mr. Marcos and Mr. Hegseth reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.
“Our storied alliance has never been stronger or more essential than it is today, and together we remain committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty,” Mr. Hegseth said. “And this pact extends to armed attacks