Better ties possible with Trump-led US

MANILA — The Philippines welcomes a change in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, who said in his inauguration speech that America will not impose its way of life on other nations, a Palace official said.

In a statement released to Abella said. the media, Presidential Relations between the Spokesperson Ernesto Abella Philippines and the US have said the Philippines and the US been strained in recent months, can have a "placid and mutually especially over concerns raised beneficial relationship" as by the Obama administration longtime allies. "Our diplomatic over potential human rights ties need to reflect our longstanding violations in the Philippine relationship but under government's campaign against terms and conditions that illegal drugs. protect our people's interests," President Rodrigo Duterte has announced that the Philippines will seek an independent foreign policy and closer ties with China, Russia and with Asian neighbors. He has also announced the country's "separation" from the US, its former colonizer and longtime ally.

Trump said Friday night (Manila time) that his administration "we will seek friendship and goodwill with the nations of the world, but we do so with the understanding that it is the right of all nations to put their own interests first."

He said that the US does not "seek to impose our way of life on anyone, but rather to let it shine as an example for everyone to follow."

Trump, who has promised more protectionist policies for the US, said that he will bring jobs that have been outsourced to other countries back to the US. "Protection will lead to great prosperity and strength," he said.

Abella said better relations with the US are possible but also said that the Philippines will continue to strengthening ties with "other friends and partners in the international community." —

Philstar.com