During a congratulatory phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. revealed that Trump inquired about his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos.
“Kilalang-kilala niya ‘yung mother ko. Kinukumusta niya, ‘How is Imelda?’ Sabi ko, binabati ka nga (He knows my mother very well. He asked, ‘How is Imelda?’ I told him she sends her regards),” Marcos shared during relief efforts in typhoon-hit Catanduanes.
Marcos had delayed his visit to accommodate the scheduled call, where he congratulated Trump on his recent electoral win over US Vice President Kamala Harris.
The two leaders briefly discussed the long-standing alliance between the Philippines and the United States. Marcos emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations, which he described as “deep and enduring.”
Trump’s Popularity Among Filipino-Americans
Marcos also noted the strong support Trump received from Filipino voters in the US.
“Ang mga Pilipino sa Amerika, overwhelmingly… binoto nila si Trump (Filipinos in the US overwhelmingly voted for Trump),” Marcos said, expressing optimism about meeting Trump in person soon.
Deportation Concerns Not Raised
The President clarified that the issue of undocumented Filipino immigrants in the US, numbering approximately 130,000 according to Pew Research Center data, was not discussed. Instead, he characterized the call as friendly and focused on mutual congratulations.
Trump’s promise to use the military for mass deportation of undocumented immigrants, reiterated after his November victory, remains a point of concern. Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez has urged undocumented Filipinos to voluntarily return home to avoid potential deportation.
A History of Friendship
Trump’s warm inquiry about Imelda Marcos underscores a personal connection with the Marcos family. As the two leaders prepare for closer collaboration, the conversation also reflects shared diplomatic priorities between the Philippines and the US.