Manila (30 September) -- "U.S.-Philippine relations are stronger than ever," U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas Jr. said as President Aquino returned from a successful visit to New York and San Francisco.

"We are global partners in the effort to achieve the United Nation's Millennium Development Goals; we are regional partners in supporting ASEAN's integration efforts; we are bilateral partners in advancing good governance, employment generation, improved public health, and security in the Philippines."

"President Aquino's hectic schedule meeting world leaders, business magnates, opinion makers, and fellow Philippine citizens left him only a limited amount of time for meetings with the U.S. government, but he used that time well. Along with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, he presided over the signing of the $434 million Millennium Challenge Compact, which opens a new era of collaboration between our two nations to advance Philippine development. As our ASEAN dialogue partner, President Aquino played an instrumental role in the second U.S.-ASEAN Summit. And we are delighted that President Aquino was able to meet privately with President Obama in New York to discuss issues of importance to both our nations."

"President Aquino's sessions with American companies were equally worthwhile, and I am eager to see how many U.S. firms will decide to take him up on the promise that'the Philippines is open for business.' Finally, I have heard from many Filipino-Americans who were delighted that President Aquino recognized the important role they play in our bilateral relationship by taking the time to meet with them."

"As a New Yorker myself, I was pleased to see President Aquino dining on our famous hotdogs, something few heads of state might dare to do. I hope that next time he will make it to a Mets game." (US Embassy, Manila Office)