Democracy, Freedom, and a Hint of Imperialist Agenda from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio

On a day we remember kicking out foreign powers, we got a polite knock from another one—wearing a friendlier face.
On a day we remember kicking out foreign powers, we got a polite knock from another one—wearing a friendlier face.

So, the Americans sent us a sweet little note for Philippine Independence Day. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in his official capacity, offered his congratulations to the Filipino people and gave the usual shoutouts about “friendship,” “shared values,” and how our two countries are such great “allies.”

But if you’ve been paying attention—like really paying attention—you start to realize this wasn’t just a warm greeting. It was also a gentle reminder, wrapped in the language of loyalty: “Hey, don’t forget, we’re still on the same team… right?”

The “Friends, Partners, Allies” Playbook

On the surface, being called a U.S. ally sounds great. (Come on! I know you’re tickled pink, right?) Who doesn’t want a powerful friend? But when that friendship means more military presence, more access to our bases, and more pressure to take a side in a brewing regional conflict—maybe we should pause before popping the champagne.

Because here’s the thing: We’ve heard this script before. And it usually comes with conditions we don’t see until we’re already locked in.

Rubio also dropped the classic U.S. foreign policy buzzwords: “peace” and “security.” Nice. Except these words often show up right before countries become chess pieces in someone else’s power game.

Let’s be honest—this isn’t just about values. This is about strategy. Geography. Control of sea lanes. The South China Sea is heating up, and the U.S. wants to make sure we’re sitting firmly in their corner.

Is This Still Independence?

So it’s a little ironic, isn’t it? On the same day we celebrate kicking out colonial powers, we get a letter from a global superpower subtly reminding us that we’re part of their defense plans.

Sure, we’ve got a history with the U.S.—some of it good, some of it horrible and complicated. But when a friendly message starts to feel like a contract renewal, you have to ask: are we being celebrated… or recruited?

As I have said before, this isn’t about being anti-U.S. or blind to the threat of China. It’s about making sure we don’t get dragged into something bigger than us, under the illusion that we’re just keeping old alliances alive.

So, thanks for the message, Mr. Rubio. But just know—some of us are reading between the lines.

willgalang.com