Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris and Vice President Sara Z. Duterte (Photo by OVP MPRD)

MANILA, 21 November 2022 – United States Vice President Kamala Harris paid a courtesy call on Philippine Vice President Sara Z. Duterte on 21 November 2022, immediately prior to the former’s courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

Vice President Harris reiterated the United States’ commitment to support the Philippines’ security agenda, particularly against armed attacks. Vice President Duterte expressed her appreciation for such continued support and underscored the need for peace and stability, specifically in the Mindanao region.

Vice President Duterte likewise highlighted the Department of Education’s (DepEd) plans to institutionalize the blended learning program to address the challenges brought about by the pandemic to children’s learning process. She further informed her US counterpart of DepEd’s ongoing partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to provide skills training to senior high school graduates eager to join the workforce. Vice President Harris expressed her appreciation for these initiatives.

Vice President Kamala Harris signs the Guest Book of the Office of the Vice President (Photo by OVP MPRD)

In addition to the above, the Vice Presidents discussed a wide range of issues on security, labor, and economic development, among other topics.

The US Vice President was impressed by Vice President Duterte’s responsibilities while working at the OVP and DepEd. Vice President Duterte promoted Filipino cuisines by inviting the US Vice President to taste them while visiting the Philippines.

The Philippines and United States are celebrating 76 years of diplomatic relations in 2022.