    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [May 19, 2003]
    [Pages 513-514]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a State Dinner Honoring President Gloria Macapagal-
    Arroyo of the Philippines
    May 19, 2003

        Welcome. Madam President, Attorney Arroyo,
    Miguel it is a high honor for Laura
    and me to welcome you and host you at the White House. Madam President,
    I know you attended college here in Washington, so perhaps I ought to
    say welcome back or, as they say at Georgetown, Hoya Saxa. [Laughter]
        With your visit, the Philippines and the United States affirm our
    strong friendship, our common commitment to fighting terror, and our
    shared determination to promote freedom.
        Our nations are natural partners. We are connected by an ocean,
    united by a shared history, and sustained by the bonds of family and
    culture. More than 2 million Americans have family ties to the
    Philippines. And some are with us tonight, and you're welcome. Filipino
    Americans strengthen America's culture, our economy, and our Government.
    And we are privileged that they call this country their home.
        The United States and the Philippines are also joined by common
    values, especially the value of human freedom. And when freedom comes
    under attack, our countries respond.
        Madam President, you've been a fierce fighter of terrorism in your
    own country. You've earned the respect of the American people for your
    resolve. And after September the 11th, you were one of the first leaders
    to contact me and express your strong support for the war against
    terror, and you have not wavered.
        The President was also a strong and persuasive voice on the need to
    disarm Saddam Hussein and to liberate the
    Iraqi people.
        Madam President, for your leadership and for your friendship, I
    thank you.
        Seventeen years ago, the Filipino people restored their nation's
    democratic tradition and inspired lovers of freedom across the globe. In
    the years since, the Philippines has emerged as a stronger and more
    confident nation. The Philippines is building its prosperity on the
    foundation of markets and building its future on a foundation of
    democracy. These commitments are opening new opportunities for the
    Filipino people and setting a hopeful example for other nations
    traveling the road to freedom.
        President Arroyo is playing a large role in her nation's success.
    Her bold and determined leadership has opened a new chapter in the
    friendship between our countries and is responsible for revitalizing our
    strong alliance.
        In his last poem, Jose Rizal, one of the founders of the Filipino
    independence, referred to his native land as the ``Pearl of the Orient
    Seas.'' More than a century later, this ``pearl'' is admired the world
    over for its beauty, its progress, and its wonderful people.

    [[Page 514]]

        Madam President, it will be my pleasure to visit the Philippines
    later this year, with you as my host. And Laura
    and I and the American people are honored to have you and your
    husband Miguel as our guests here tonight. Would
    you please join me in a toast to the enduring friendship between the
    Philippines and the United States.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:33 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the
    White House. In his remarks, he referred to Jose Miguel Arroyo, husband
    of President Macapagal-Arroyo; and former President Saddam Hussein of
    Iraq. The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also
    included the remarks of President Macapagal-Arroyo.