US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s support for the Luzon Economic Corridor during a telephone conversation with Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on May 31, underscoring the growing economic and strategic partnership between Manila and Washington.
According to the US Department of State, Rubio and Marcos discussed a range of priorities, including regional security, economic cooperation, and energy development. The two leaders also exchanged views on efforts to promote peace and stability in the South China Sea, a persistent flashpoint in the Indo-Pacific.
Rubio reiterated US backing for the Luzon Economic Corridor, a flagship initiative aimed at accelerating investments in transport, energy, technology, and logistics infrastructure across the country’s main economic island.
The project is expected to bolster trade connectivity, strengthen supply chains, and attract new manufacturing and investment opportunities.
The US top diplomat also highlighted the enduring strength of the Philippines-US alliance, emphasizing close collaboration on economic, security, and strategic issues amid an increasingly complex regional landscape.
The call comes as both countries prepare to mark two major milestones in 2026: the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the bilateral alliance.
The Luzon Economic Corridor is envisioned as a catalyst for investments in railways, ports, clean energy, semiconductor supply chains, agribusiness, and digital infrastructure.
Philippine and US officials view the initiative as key to reducing logistics costs, improving the movement of goods, and positioning Luzon as a major manufacturing hub in the Indo-Pacific.
Separately, Michael George DeSombre is scheduled to visit Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Brunei, and the Philippines from May 31 to June 10 to engage government and business leaders on advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific.
