President of the Philippine Republic from 1953 to 1957, President Ramon Magsaysay was born on August 31, 1907 in Iba, Zambales to Exequiel Magsaysay and Perfecta del Fierro. He was called "The Guy" by his admirers, he gave meaning to people's participation in the democratic process.

The state visit of U.S. President George W. Bush on October 18,2003 further cemented Philippine-U.S. relations. It came at a time when the world was on the throes of terrorism which upto now remains unyielding. But firm as the terrorists are, the U.S. and its allies (including the Philippines) are just as determined to seek out and destroy their enemies in a kind of warfare that is not conventional and which could not have an end in sight.

The beginnings of Philippines-Korea relations are rooted in the commitment of both countries to freedom and democracy and in their common desire for peace and development. These values have served to sustain the friendship and cooperation which have characterized their relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties on 3 March 1949.