The 'ironclad' commitment of the United States to protect the Philippines against foreign aggressors as well as other security issues took the limelight during President Marcos' official trip to Washington last week. While such a statement of support as embodied in the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the two countries appears timely given the growing assertiveness of Beijing in disputed parts of the South China Sea, Mr. Marcos was spot-on in reminding the US that economic relations between the long-time allies should not be left behind while they strengthen defense cooperation.

https://opinion.inquirer.net/162968/ph-us-trade-ties-important-too

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