PH may challenge Trump on tariffs

President Marcos should remind United States (US) President Donald Trump that the Philippines is America’s “best ally” in Southeast Asia as the government pursues a beneficial trade deal amid the upcoming implementation of the 20 percent tariff, according to a prominent business leader.

- DEXTER BARRO II

Following a trilateral meeting with representatives of Japan and the Philippines, US State Secretary Marco Rubio announced that Marcos is scheduled to visit Washington, DC, “in a few days” to meet with Trump.

Malacafiang later confirmed that the bilateral meeting is scheduled for July 20-22.

Rubio said the US intends to build upon its strong economic and security ties with the Philippines.

So far, it is unclear whether Marcos will join members of his Cabinet’s economic team, who will visit the US next week to hold negotiations on tariffs.

Marcos’ first visit to the US since Trump assumed office in January comes after Trump’s move to raise the tariffs against Philippine goods entering America from 17 percent to 20 percent.

In his letter to Marcos, Trump said the tariffs are necessary to “correct” the Philippines’ trade deficits with the US, which he described as a “major threat” to the American economy and national security.