Outgoing United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson is departing her post in Manila with Ryan Cayabyab's 'Kumukutikutitap' as the song etched in her heart, alongside memories of the Filipino people. In her farewell message, she expressed fondness for Philippine culture and cuisine, and the strengthening of US-Philippines ties. She highlighted the role of trust in diplomacy.
In her farewell message on January 16, 2026, MaryKay Carlson shared that as she leaves the Philippines after more than three years, Ryan Cayabyab's 'Kumukutikutitap' is the tune she will carry, symbolizing the joyful Filipino Christmas. She stated, 'Over the last three-plus years, I sang Louis Armstrong’s ‘A Kiss to Build a Dream On’ many times... But as I depart the Philippines, the quintessential Filipino holiday tune ‘Kumukutikutitap’ by Ryan Cayabyab is the song I take in my heart – along with fond memories of sparkling parols, friends and family, and the sheer joy that accompanies the longest Christmas season in the world.'
Carlson arrived in Manila in 2022, and before starting, she consulted former US ambassadors who advised on the warmth of Filipino hospitality and the shared history and values of the two nations. One recurring tip was to choose a song for karaoke, which fosters relationships. 'It’s not about how well you sing; it’s about the shared experience that helps build meaningful relationships. In the Philippines, contacts become colleagues; colleagues become friends; and friends become family,' she noted.
She also mentioned missing fresh mangoes, lumpia, and the mutual passion for basketball between the US and Philippines. 'The US-Philippines relationship as friends, partners, and allies has never been stronger or more consequential,' she added. As the highlight of her 40-year career, she expressed gratitude: 'Maraming, maraming salamat at hanggang sa muli.'
