Abella also said the long-standing relationship between the two countries were affirmed as there are four million Filipinos in the US while there are about 500,000 Americans in the Philippines.
In particular, the two officials tackled common concerns such as terrorism, crimes, drugs, religious fanaticism and maritime security where they also came up with a menu of solutions. Also discussed were the Paris climate change deal and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA.