Trump Administration Boosts Philippines Aid amidst Health Crisis

The Trump administration announced an additional $250 million in aid to the Philippines, aiming to address pressing health concerns such as tuberculosis and maternal health, along with emerging diseases. This initiative was declared by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday.

Previously, $63 million was pledged during a meeting between President Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House in July. Rubio emphasized that the new assistance mirrors the profound bond between the U.S. and the Philippines and aligns with Trump's revised 'America First' foreign aid strategy.

This strategy is characterized by efficient, targeted, and time-limited aid, following the closure of USAID and other similar channels. Despite Trump's administration attempting to scale back foreign aid, Congress, with a Republican majority, has allocated sizeable aid budgets aiming to be spent by September 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)