MANILA, Philippines – Outgoing US Ambassador Kristie Kenney has assured the Department of Foreign Affairs of a sustained RP-US defense and security partnership during a farewell dinner held in her honor at the Goldenberg Mansions.

Ambassador Kenney said the partnership also includes counterterrorism and the US' continued support to the Mindanao peace process.

DFA Secretary Alberto Romulo, who hosted the dinner for Kenney, lauded the ambassador’s significant achievements in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

Romulo particularly noted that under Kenney’s watch, the RP-US defense partnership was enhanced. There was also an increased exchange of visits of Philippine and US officials, as well as recognition of military service and grant of benefits given to Filipino World War II veterans.

Kenney also facilitated the visit of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton last November 2009.

Kenney was the first female ambassador of the United States to the Philippines. She was appointed to the position in 2006.

The well-loved ambassador said she will make her farewell call on President Arroyo shortly.