Gov't urged to consult farmers over US tariff issue

The Philippines should not leave farmers behind in its trade negotiations with the United States regarding reciprocal tariffs to ensure that producers' concerns are heard, according to agriculture groups.

- Jasper Emmanuel Arcalas

The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) and the MAGSASAKA Party List (MAGSASAKA) said the government must conduct consultations with farmers and other key stakeholders before beginning its negotiations with the US over Trump's tariffs.

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go said the Philippine government has already reached out to the US Trade Representative (USTR) and has communicated its intention to engage in a meeting or a dialogue on the tariff policy.

Go disclosed that he is scheduling a trip to the US to meet with USTR and begin trade negotiations.

"We call on Secretary Go to review options and strategies with domestic agricultural and other sectors before making any offers and commitments to the US," FFF board chairman Leonardo Montemayor said.

"We are apprehensive that farmers and fishers will again be used as a bargaining chip to get concessions for the non-agricultural sector," Montemayor added.