16 December 2013 - US Secretary of State John F. Kerry will begin his 2-day visit of the Philippines on Tuesday. It will be his first visit to the Philippines as Secretary of State.

During his visit, Secretary Kerry will meet with President Benigno S. Aquino III and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. del Rosario.

Among the topics that are expected to be discussed during these events are the broadening of economic and security cooperation of the Philippines and U.S. as well as strengthening of people-to-people ties.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster response and cooperation on regional issues are also expected to be part of the agenda.

In addition, Secretary Kerry will visit Tacloban City to meet people affected by Typhoon Yolanda as well as those involved in the relief effort. END