The Antonio’s and the Trumps have been long-time friends and business partners. For Robbie Antonio, who originally brought the Trump business relationship and the families together, this marked his sixth attendance at the Mar-a-lago New Year’s event with the U.S. First Family and second U.S. presidential inauguration – first for the 45th, and now for the 47th President of the United States.

Speaking about the family’s attendance, Robbie Antonio said: “Our family has cherished a long-standing friendship with the Trumps, and being present at this historic moment was both a personal honor and a reflection of the strong ties.”

PHL’s trusted, Go-To guy for trade relations

“As Special Envoy, I have always prioritized the Philippines in every diplomatic conversation. From my role as Special Trade Envoy to China in 2005 to my appointment as Special Envoy to the United States in 2016, my mission has remained clear—creating opportunities that benefit the Filipino people,” said  Ambassador Jose E.B. Antonio

With a distinguished diplomatic career spanning multiple administrations, Ambassador Jose E.B. Antonio has long been the country’s trusted representative in critical trade discussions. He served as the Philippines’ Special Trade Envoy to China in 2005 during the Arroyo administration, followed by his appointment as Special Envoy to the United States in 2016 under President Duterte during President Trump’s first term.