[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 71 (Thursday, June 4, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S5658]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       U.S.-PHILIPPINE RELATIONS

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today to cosponsor a 
resolution offered by my colleague the Senator from Hawaii, Mr. Akaka. 
This resolution commemorates 100 years of relations between the people 
of the United States and the people of the Philippines.
  100 years ago, Mr. President, the Philippines gained their 
independence from Spain. This was the beginning of a long and fruitful 
relationship between our two countries and our two peoples.
  The people of the Philippines have shown a strong commitment to free 
government, individual liberty and a market economy. Over the last 100 
years they have worked hard to establish democratic institutions and to 
develop a thriving free market economy.
  The Philippines has served as an important ally to the United States, 
protecting the peace and security of South Asia as it provided an 
example of the human desire for freedom.
  What is more, Mr. President, Filipino soldiers have fought side by 
side with American troops in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. The 
people of the Philippines have shown themselves to be strong and loyal 
friends of America.
  The significant number of Filipinos who have come to the United 
States also have made great contributions of our nation through their 
culture and their individual initiative.
  The Philippines has become a major trading partner for the United 
States and remains a strong ally in our efforts to maintain regional 
stability.
  It is my hope that our two nations will enjoy another 100 years of 
mutual respect and support, and that my colleagues will join me in 
congratulating the Philippines on the anniversary of its independence 
from Spain.

                          ____________________