President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to hold a bilateral meeting with his United States counterpart President Joe Biden in Washington DC on May 1 (US time), the White House confirmed Friday.

Biden will reaffirm the US’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines and discuss with Marcos efforts to strengthen the two nations’ alliance, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.

“The two leaders will review opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and promote inclusive prosperity, expand our nations’ special people-to-people ties, invest in the clean energy transition and the fight against climate change, and ensure respect for human rights,” she said.

“The two leaders will also discuss regional matters and coordinate on efforts to uphold international law and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific,” she added.

Marcos will be in the US from April 30 to May 4 on an official working visit where he will also meet with members of the Filipino community, US legislators, major US corporations, and business organizations.

His bilateral talks with Biden will be followed by an expanded meeting with key Cabinet officials. (PNA)