President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has formally invited United States President Donald Trump to visit the Philippines next year to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Manila. The invitation highlights efforts to deepen diplomatic ties as the Philippines hosts the 2026 summit, which coincides with two key anniversaries in Philippine-U.S. relations.
The summit next year will mark 80 years of diplomatic relations between Manila and Washington and 75 years of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), both of which the president emphasized in his remarks after a three-day visit to the United States.
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Celebrating Historic Ties
“I look forward to hosting President Trump next year to attend the ASEAN meetings under the Philippines’ chair, which also coincides with the commemoration of our 80th year of diplomatic ties and 75 years of the Mutual Defense Treaty,” Marcos said in his arrival statement.
During their bilateral meeting at the White House, Marcos said he personally extended the invitation. In a brief exchange captured by the media, Trump confirmed the invitation. The American president responded that he would visit “soon,” turning to Marcos and noting that the Philippine leader had personally extended the invitation.
The Philippines will host the ASEAN Summit in 2026, while the United States, though not an ASEAN member, participates in related events as part of the East Asia Summit, which includes major regional partners like Japan and China.
Reaffirming Alliance and Stability
Marcos underscored the importance of his visit and meeting with Trump, describing it as vital for strengthening cooperation and shared strategic interests.
“The United States is our oldest and only treaty ally, and my visit to meet the new president is important in advancing our historic and dynamic cooperation, mutual respect, and shared strategic interests,” Marcos said.
He also described the MDT of 1951 as “a cornerstone of Philippine security policy,” stressing that the alliance plays a key role in maintaining stability in the region.
As the country prepares to host ASEAN leaders and dialogue partners next year, officials see the upcoming summit as an opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ diplomatic leadership and renew commitments to regional peace and economic cooperation.
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