Final answer:
The Philippines and America are friends due to shared historical experiences, mutual economic and strategic interests, and shared democratic values that developed over time, from America's imperialist period to the Philippines' independence and the forging of a bilateral relationship.
Step-by-step explanation:
The friendship between the Philippines and America is rooted in history, and can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. America's imperialist aspirations played a significant role in their involvement with the Philippines, with an eye towards trade with China and strategic military positioning. The U.S. sought to prevent other foreign powers from taking control of the islands, as depicted by attempts like Germany seeking a base there shortly after the Spanish surrendered. This geopolitical strategy was balanced by a mixture of ideological motives and economic interests.
Despite initial resistance to Filipino independence, many Americans came to support the transfer of sovereignty to Filipinos in the 1930s, leading to a mutual respect and the eventual recognition of Philippine independence on July 4, 1946. President Harry Truman's recognition of their independence acknowledged the Philippines' sacrifices during Japanese occupation in WWII and the Filipinos' contribution to their own liberation. After independence, the Philippines maintained a strategic relationship with the U.S., allowing for U.S. military bases and American business advantages in the region.
Even after independence, the continued relationship between the United States and the Philippines was influenced by military strategy, economic interests, and shared democratic values. The mutual historical experiences have fostered a deep bilateral relationship that has been fortified by trade, aid, and strategic military cooperation.