THE meeting of the Philippine Council for Foreign Relations (PCFR) with US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson on June 7, 2023 was remarkable for the candid exchange of views.

Ambassador Carlson won over her hosts for being unassuming, interested in understanding the views and sentiments of Filipinos on how the United States can enhance its relations with the Philippines, and showing the American way. She preferred to go to the buffet table instead of being served at the presidential table and went to every one of the six round tables to meet her hosts.