US Congressman Russell Receives PH Consul General and FilCom Leaders in Oklahoma

Congressman Steve Russell with Consul General Gina Jamoralin at the Oklahoma State Capitol. (Chicago PCG photo)

CHICAGO 23 November 2018 — “A dialogue to expand a great partnership” best summarizes the meeting that took place between Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin of the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago and U.S. Representative Steve Russell of the 5th Congressional District of Oklahoma on 09 November 2018 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

The two officials highlighted the enduring alliance of the Philippines with the U.S.  Aside from being its only defense treaty ally, the U.S. also has a long shared history with the Philippines. In addition, they noted their countries’ healthy trade relationship, similar social institutions and common aspirations grounded on liberty, justice, and human rights, and democracy as a way of life.

The U.S. and the Philippines also work closely together in the war against terror. An effective military exchange education system and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) further solidify and bolster their alliance and interoperability.

Their meeting likewise buoyed optimism that the Philippines, currently the 17th source of Oklahoma’s imports and 66th destination of the state’s exports, can broaden its economic ties with the midwestern state. Oklahoma boasts not only a robust agricultural base, but also a nearly US$44 billion-worth aerospace industry and other major industry sectors that include biosciences, energy, information and financial services, manufacturing and transportation, and distribution.

Consul General Jamoralin also thanked Congressman Russell, who sits on the House Committee on Armed Services, House Steering Committee; and House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for his co-sponsorship of the Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act. She also extended to him an invitation to join the US-Philippines Friendship Caucus and asked him to consider including the Philippines in his next visit to East Asia. END

For more information, visit www.chicagopcg.dfa.gov.ph; www.chicagopcg.com or https://www.facebook.com/PHinChicago.

After their meeting, Congressman Russell and Consul General Jamoralin take a photo opportunity with DCG Romulo Victor Israel Jr., (first from left) as well as Dr. Ted Tolentino, Mrs. Marcy Tolentino and Mr. Ernest Abrogar, who represented their fellow Filipino community leaders in Oklahoma. (Chicago PCG photo)