United States, Philippines Discuss ‘Value Of Dev’t Cooperation’ Amid Foreign Aid Review

US-Philippines Progress Ties amidst global Aid Review

The United States and the Philippines recently affirmed the importance of their development cooperation, even as the new US administration conducts a extensive review of foreign aid programs worldwide.

This discussion took place on February 14th during a meeting between Philippine secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo and US Secretary of State marco Rubio at the munich Security Conference in Germany. “Both Secretaries discussed the value of our development cooperation work. We also recognize, though, that the new US administration is still in the process of completing the review of the work of various development agencies,” stated DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza.

In January 2020, the Trump administration initiated a 90-day review of all foreign aid programs, halting new commitments and disbursements to nations except for those in Israel and Egypt.This freeze sparked considerable uncertainty, notably for developing countries reliant on US assistance.

Secretary Manalo recently acknowledged that the Philippines has yet to receive a definitive clarification on which US-funded development projects in the contry have been affected by this freeze.

However, there is a glimmer of hope as a US District Judge, Amir Ali, issued a temporary injunction on February 13th ordering the Trump administration to lift the funding pause for programs in existence prior to January 19th, 2020. This ruling followed legal action brought by nonprofit organizations that depend on USAID funding, such as the Aids Vaccine Advocacy Coalition and Global Health Council.

Judge Ali, in his ruling, stated, “there is no description, at least to date, ‘for why a blanket suspension of all congressionally appropriated foreign aid, which set off a shockwave and upended reliance interests for thousands of agreements with businesses, nonprofits, and organizations around the country, was a rational precursor to reviewing programs’.”

The ongoing review of US foreign aid policies holds significant implications for countries like the Philippines.While the long-term impact remains uncertain, the recent court decision offers temporary relief for organizations reliant on USAID funding. The outcome of the review and its ramifications for US-Philippine development cooperation will undoubtedly be closely watched in the coming months.

Given the US aid review and its potential impact on Philippine projects, what concrete steps is the Philippines taking to ensure its progress goals are met, irrespective of the review’s outcome?

US-Philippines Progress Ties amidst Global Aid Review: An Interview with Secretary Manalo

US-Philippines Progress Ties amidst Global Aid Review

The United States and the Philippines recently affirm their commitment to development cooperation, despite ongoing reviews of US foreign aid. We spoke with Philippines secretary of foreign Affairs,Enrique manalo,to discuss the implications and the way forward.

treffen Sie Secretary Manalo: Affirming Development Cooperation

Secretary manalo, you recently met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference. Can you share your key takeaways from that discussion?

Enrique Manalo: Well, we both agreed on the importance of our development cooperation. We acknowledged the review process happening in the US, but the commitment to our partnership remains strong.

Navigating the US Aid Review: Clarity and Concerns

Coudl you give us an update on the US aid review and how it’s affecting Philippine projects?

Enrique Manalo: We’re still awaiting definitive clarity from the US side. We’ve seen a freeze on new commitments, but we’re hopeful that A Glimmer of Hope: The Court’s interim Ruling

Indeed, Judge Amir Ali’s injunction has provided some temporary relief. What’s your take on this development?

Enrique Manalo: It’s a welcome reprieve, but we’re waiting for final clarity. We also acknowledge that this is an interim decision, so we can’t rely on it entirely for long-term planning.

Do you anticipate any shifts in the nature of US-Phillippines cooperation, regardless of the review’s outcome?

Enrique Manalo: We’re prepared for all outcomes. But our focus remains on our bilateral relationship, which is strong and resilient. We look forward to a more predictable aid landscape soon.

Looking Ahead: the Future of US-Philippines Development Cooperation

How can we ensure that this partnership remains robust and beneficial to both nations?

Enrique Manalo: Open dialog, adaptability, and mutual respect will be key. We encourage readers to engage in this topic, as your perspectives matter, too.