MANILA - The visiting United States congressional delegation (CODEL) has reaffirmed Manila's "extraordinary role" in the US defense and security policy, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday.

In a tweet, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed that he met with the delegation, led by Senator Edward Markey, at the agency's office in Pasay City on Friday.

"Earlier today, I exchanged views with a US Congressional delegation, led by (Senator Markey), on the overall direction and future of bilateral relations under the new Philippine administration," he said.

"The CODEL reaffirmed the extraordinary role of the Philippines and the alliance in US defense & security policy," he added.

During the delegation's courtesy call, Manalo underscored the importance of Manila's bilateral partnership with Washington, D.C. "and the continuing diplomatic engagement with other regional actors, including Asean, in promoting the peace and prosperity of both countries and the region as a whole."

Markey was joined by Representatives John Garamendi, Alan Lowenthal, Don Beyer, and Aumua Amata, and Deputy Chief of Mission Heather Variava of the US Embassy in Manila.

In a separate statement, the US Embassy said the continuous engagement between the two nations, as reflected by the CODEL visit, showed the "strong commitment of the US to deepen our relationship with the Philippines as friends, partners, and allies." (PNA)