US, PH Mark 80 Years of Strong Diplomatic Ties

Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Robert Ewing unveil the 80th-anniversary logo.

US, PH Mark 80 Years of Strong Diplomatic Ties

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | February 6, 2026

PASAY CITY, Philippines – The Philippines and the United States have kicked off a year-long celebration to honor 80 years of diplomatic relations.

The celebration reflects decades of shared history, evolving collaboration, and steadfast commitment to a strategic partnership.

Festivities began on Thursday, February 5, 2026, with the launch of the official logo for the 80th anniversary at SM Mall of Asia Globe in Pasay City.

Formal diplomatic ties were established on July 4, 1946, a date that is also celebrated annually as Philippine-American Friendship Day.

The newly introduced logo serves as a powerful visual symbol of the enduring connection between the two countries.

It features elements from both nations’ flags: the eight-rayed sun of the Philippines and the stars and stripes of the United States.

“We are not merely presenting a design,” said Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez during the unveiling ceremony.

“We are sharing a narrative — eight decades of collective struggles, shared values, and common aspirations.”

Romualdez highlighted the two countries’ dynamic relationship, evolving from post-war reconstruction and Cold War collaboration to contemporary economic initiatives and vibrant exchanges between citizens.

“This logo signifies much more than the number 80. It embodies a living partnership that has adapted and grown over time… Our relationship has never been stagnant; it has evolved and strengthened,” he said.

The ambassador pointed out that the human aspect is fundamental to the alliance.

“What truly makes the Philippines-United States relationship unique is that it is grounded not just in treaties and institutions, but in the people,” he remarked, expressing optimism for the future of this partnership.

In a similar vein, US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Robert Ewing underscored the tangible successes achieved through collaboration.

“We take pride in what we’ve accomplished together, from standing united in times of conflict to fostering economic growth, and collaborating in health, education, and disaster response,” Ewing declared.

He also noted the ongoing engagement at all government levels, extending to the everyday interactions between Americans and Filipinos. “This is truly a relationship that is accelerating,” he added.

The year 2026 serves as a moment to reflect on the rich history of the Philippines-United States relationship, founded on mutual respect, shared democratic ideals, and a commitment to regional stability.

The collaborative creation of the anniversary logo by the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Embassy in Manila stands as a symbolic testament to the enduring strength and cooperative spirit that characterize this essential partnership as both nations look forward to a future of continued friendship, alliance, and strategic collaboration.

The celebrations for the 80th anniversary are set to include a variety of events and initiatives aimed at further strengthening ties and showcasing the multifaceted nature of this lasting alliance.