President Donald Trump’s defense and trade policies are prompting the Philippines to look beyond its longstanding alliance with the US and build ties with non-traditional partners, Manila’s top diplomat said. "There was a time when you’d only deal with your partner, but it’s really evolving," Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said in an interview Thursday. "Now, countries are trying to really develop a good number of relationships, and it’s about time." The shift reflects growing concerns over the reliability of traditional alliances under Trump’s second term, as Manila explores deeper engagement with other global powers to safeguard its strategic and economic interests.