MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday said it would continue to engage the United States government to assess the possible impact of President Donald Trump’s order of a temporary suspension of foreign assistance.
“The Department understands that the US Department of State as well as other relevant US government agencies involved in the aid program are studying the executive order and how it will impact on US partnerships,” DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza in a message to reporters.
Trump has ordered a 90-day pause in foreign development assistance, pending a review of efficiencies and consistency with his foreign policy.
The US State Department issued a “stop-work” order for all existing foreign assistance and paused new aid in connection to Trump’s instruction.
Daza said the DFA “will continue to engage the US government on this matter.”
“In their recent phone conversation, Secretary Manalo and Secretary Rubio underscored the importance of PH-US alliance and committed to work towards strengthening security, economic, and regional cooperation,” she added.
In a statement Sunday, the US State Department said Secretary Marco Rubio is initiating a review of all foreign assistance programs to ensure they are efficient and consistent with US foreign policy under the America First agenda.
“President Trump stated clearly that the United States is no longer going to blindly dole out money with no return for the American people,” it said.
“Reviewing and realigning foreign assistance on behalf of hardworking taxpayers is not just the right thing to do, it is a moral imperative,” it added. (PNA)