President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. hosted a courtesy call with senior members of the United States Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) at Malacañang Palace on Thursday, reaffirming the strong defense ties between the Philippines and the U.S.

The delegation was led by SASC Chairman Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Senator Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), joined by U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson.

Marcos expressed gratitude for America’s continued support, especially in modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines amid evolving security challenges.

“We are greatly appreciative of all the support the United States has given us… including the modernization of our Armed Forces,” said President Marcos.

Senator Wicker responded by emphasizing the growing strength of the bilateral relationship, calling it “one of the most important” for the U.S. Senator Fischer echoed the sentiment, describing the Philippines as “an equal and strong partner.”

Joining the meeting were top Philippine officials including Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.

The visit highlights ongoing cooperation under key agreements such as the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The SASC plays a critical role in shaping U.S. defense policy and funding through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).