The Phillipines were scheduled to gain their independence from US in 1944. Prior to the Japanese attack he served under MacArthur who was organizing the Army of the Phillipines. I think he served as President of the Phillipines.
Romulo never served in any elected office, because he was a lousy politician, and his English was way better than his Tagalog. He was appointed to all his official positions.
The Philippines was scheduled to get its independence in 1945.
Romulo was appointed an officer in the US Army, by MacArthur, but he was no soldier, and this was just a courtesy appointment. He was a newspaperman by trade, being publisher of the Manila Herald among others. His real skill was public (and private) relations, and its in that role that he served.
His role under MacArthur was as the representative of the Philippine government in exile.