Has Donald Trump forgotten just how much he said he loved the Philippines?
Malacañang reminded the American real estate mogul of the praises he heaped on the Philippines a few years ago after he mentioned the country as one of the “terrorist nations” whose immigrants shouldn’t be allowed entry to the United States.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday (August 6) said Trump “unfortunately mentioned” the Philippines in his political rally despite investing his “brand” in the country through the Trump Tower’s construction in Makati City.
“In fact, Mr. Trump has even professed his love for the Philippines during the launch of his 57-storey luxury apartment in Makati. He did say, ‘I’ve always loved the Philippines. I think it is just a special place and Manila is one of Asia’s most spectacular cities. I know that this project (Trump Tower) will be second to none,’” the Palace official noted.
Trump Tower, a high-end residential project by the Century Properties Group, was launched in 2012. Construction is expected to be finished within this year.
Speaking before his supporters in Portland, Maine Thursday (Friday in Manila, August 5), Trump seethed at the entry of people from “terrorist nations” in the United States, who he believes should be banned because of the dangers they might possibly pose to Americans.
Aside from the Philippines, other countries which Trump identified to be the source of immigrants targeted by Islamist terror group recruiters are: Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Morocco, Pakistan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen.
Despite Trump’s tirade, Andanar assured that the Philippines is one with other nations in fighting terrorism.
“Let it be known that the Philippines and the Filipino people stand in solidarity with other peace-loving countries and individuals in fighting and opposing terrorism in all its forms,” he said.
