Hearing President Donald J. Trump’s inaugural address filled me with excitement for our country’s future. In my view, the Philippines will be in a much better position with Trump at the helm.

His second term is set to outshine his first, thanks to a group of visionaries who not only have common sense but also know how to run a government efficiently, with Elon Musk leading the charge. Musk’s influence could redefine America’s technological edge, making its competition look like they’re stuck in the mud. This renewed vigor and focus on American greatness will bolster allies like the Philippines, potentially transforming our sovereignty and economic landscape.

Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: China’s growing influence here.

Over the last two decades, we’ve seen an alarming trend where Chinese enterprises have infiltrated critical sectors of our economy –- from power and telecommunications to infrastructure. While partnerships are essential, the extent of Chinese involvement raises questions about our sovereignty. Are we still in control, or have we become a de facto province of China? This isn’t just about business; it’s about our national identity.

This is why I’ve become a staunch supporter of President Marcos Jr. His strategic pivot back to America has been a significant move to reverse our slide into becoming another Chinese province. Trump’s “America First” policy might seem inward-looking, but for us it means a stronger US commitment in the Asia-Pacific.

His administration has already demonstrated a readiness to challenge China’s maritime aggression in the South China Sea, potentially strengthening our security ties and supporting our claims against Chinese overreach.

The appointment of Marco Rubio as Secretary of State is a game-changer for us. His nuanced understanding of the West Philippine Sea issue and his aggressive stance against China’s expansionism are exactly what we need. Rubio sees China’s actions not merely as territorial squabbles but as part of a larger strategy driven by China’s geopolitical insecurities. His leadership suggests a more engaged US policy, ensuring that the Philippines won’t be left to fend for itself in the face of Chinese assertiveness.

Although we share cultural links with China, American influence has shaped our identity in profound ways. Filipinos resonate with Western values, especially freedom of speech — a cornerstone of our national identity, championed by Jose Rizal, no less. Rizal’s struggle against Spanish oppression through free expression is a legacy we cherish, contrasting sharply with the controlled environment in communist China.

Critics might worry about Trump’s unpredictability destabilizing global relations. However, for the Philippines, this unpredictability could keep China guessing, offering a strategic ambiguity that would benefit smaller nations like ours.

Personally, I advocate for America retaining its superpower status for centuries to come. A robust America is key to ensuring that we don’t become a province of China. America respects our commitment to sovereignty, cultural identity, and free speech —- the very values that define us, albeit the bulk of the work falls on us.

We must safeguard our voice, our wealth, and our future from being dictated on by foreign financial might. The Marcos Jr. administration has made strides in cleansing our nation of POGO influences and reclaiming our symbols of sovereignty.

President Trump’s return might just be the catalyst we need to reassert our place in the world, not as a satellite state but as a proud, hopeful, and sovereign nation.