U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today received the ‘Order of Lakandula, one of the highest honors given by the Republic of the Philippines.
At a luncheon hosted by President Benigno Aquino, Ms. Clinton was honored for deepening and broadening the engagement between United States and the Philippines.
“One of cornerstones our engagement is the Mutual Defense Treaty between our two countries. Today we celebrate the 60th anniversary.” -President Aquino
He highlighted that the occasion also recognized the launching the U.S.-United States new Partnership for Growth. He said the Partnership for Growth is a new framework for strengthening our economic engagement to promote and support broad base economic growth.
He stressed that Secretary Clinton’s visit shows the strong alliance between the United States and Philippines. He added that both countries enjoy a friendship forged by shared history and goodwill. He added that the Pacific may separate the two countries, but the words and deeds of the past provide them with a bridge that is able to reach across the vast ocean.
“With this, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to propose a toast to Secretary Hillary Clinton may we build stronger relationship, cooperation, mutual benefit and the sincere desire to work for our people as we work to institute lasting and inclusive progress in our two nations.” -President Aquino
