Trump’s envoy pick to strengthen PHL security alliance with US, analysts say

THE APPOINTMENT of a new US ambassador to the Philippines is expected to deepen Washington's political and security ties with Manila as the Trump administration refocuses on the Indo-Pacific region, analysts said.

- By Adrian H. Halili

US President Donald J. Trump last week named Florida businessman Lee Lipton as ambassador to the Philippines, replacing MaryKay L, Carlson, who held the post from 2022. The selection comes amid escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea and renewed US efforts to reinforce alliances across Asia.

“Such appointment may signal further deepening of our political and economic ties given that we are undoubtedly the US’ closest ally within the region, alongside Japan,” Josue Raphael J. Cortez, a diplomacy instructor at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, said in a Facebook Messenger chat.

‘The move underscores Washington's intent to strengthen its regional partnerships under Mr. Trump’s second term, according to Chester B. Cabalza, founding president of the think tank International Development and Security Cooperation.