In a heartfelt farewell message, outgoing United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Loss Carlson reflected on her transformative three-and-a-half-year tenure, emphasizing that the alliance between the two nations has never been more robust or significant. Her insights blend personal anecdotes with substantial diplomatic and economic achievements.
The Foundation of Trust and Shared Experiences
Ambassador Carlson revealed that before her posting, seasoned advisors posed an unexpected question: "What's your song?" Unaccustomed to karaoke, she soon discovered this Filipino tradition was less about vocal talent and more about forging genuine connections. "Contacts become colleagues; colleagues become friends; and friends become family," she noted, framing this people-centric approach as the essence of diplomacy built on mutual respect and trust.
This foundation of trust is reflected in tangible metrics. Carlson highlighted a recent poll showing 82% of Filipinos trust the United States as their premier security partner. She pointed to the high volume of visits by senior U.S. officials and business leaders as further proof of the relationship's prioritized status.
Concrete Pillars of the Enhanced Partnership
The Ambassador detailed significant advancements across multiple sectors during her term:
Economic and Development Cooperation: Bilateral work shifted "on hyperdrive" to boost shared prosperity. Key initiatives included:
- The launch of the Luzon Economic Corridor with Japan to spur infrastructure and job growth.
- Multiple U.S. trade missions opening new investment pathways.
- Over $313 million in U.S. foreign assistance committed in 2025 alone for health, energy security, economic development, and combating illegal fishing.
Security and Defense Alliance: Carlson described the Mutual Defense Treaty alliance as "ironclad" and "stronger than ever." Key enhancements include:
- Expanding the scale and complexity of the annual Balikatan exercise.
- Establishing Task Force Philippines for integrated defense and disaster response.
- Conducting over 500 security activities annually for the past three years to improve interoperability.
- Providing substantial funding and technology transfers to modernize the Philippine Armed Forces and Coast Guard, including targeted maritime assistance programs.
People-to-People and Cultural Ties: From a shared passion for basketball and food to the work of over 170 Peace Corps Volunteers and the world's oldest Fulbright Commission, these bonds form the bedrock of the relationship.
A Legacy of Milestones and a Personal Serenade
Ambassador Carlson departs as the two countries prepare to mark several historic milestones in 2026:
- 80 years of diplomatic relations.
- The 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
- The 10th anniversary of the UNCLOS ruling upholding Philippine maritime claims.
While her official go-to karaoke song was Louis Armstrong's "A Kiss to Build a Dream On," she leaves with Ryan Cayabyab's Christmas classic "Kumukutikutitap" in her heart—a symbol of the joy and warmth she experienced.
Calling her service the highlight of a 40-year career, Ambassador Carlson expressed confidence that the dedicated teams and networks in place will continue to strengthen this vital partnership. She concluded with a grateful "Maraming, maraming salamat at hanggang sa muli."
