Marcos Negotiations Yield 19 Percent Tariff Gains
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent negotiations have resulted in a 19 percent tariff on Philippine goods entering the United States, demonstrating that the Philippines can be both principled and pragmatic. Leyte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emphasized this development as a significant achievement for the country’s global standing.
During his Washington visit, President Marcos met with US President Donald Trump to discuss the existing 20 percent tariff imposed on Philippine products. Following their talks, Trump agreed to reduce the tariff slightly to 19 percent. In exchange, the Philippines opened its market to US goods, granting zero tariffs on certain American products.
Stronger International Presence Through Trade
Romualdez described this event as more than just a diplomatic visit. “This is a statement of confidence that the Philippines is ready to lead, to compete and to stand tall among nations,” he said. The House Speaker praised Marcos for showing that foreign policy can be both firm in defending national interests and generous in building beneficial alliances.
Access to the US market is a game-changer for Filipino businesses, Romualdez added. It enables small and medium enterprises to compete on a global scale. Moreover, it opens new opportunities for farmers, fisherfolk, and local producers to increase their earnings and growth.
“We are bringing the world closer to our shores and bringing Filipino excellence to the world,” Romualdez stated. Despite the challenges, the Philippines secured a seat at the global table, allowing it to influence future terms of engagement strategically and steadily.
Military Cooperation and West Philippine Sea Security
In addition to trade, the US pledged to strengthen military cooperation with the Philippines. Romualdez believes this partnership supports Manila’s efforts to maintain peace and security, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
He explained that safeguarding this area is not only about national territory but also about protecting the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk and securing the rights of future generations. “Through this partnership, we are reinforcing peace, not provoking conflict,” the speaker noted.
Growing Respect for Marcos’ Leadership
Romualdez highlighted that President Marcos earned respect abroad, with Trump calling him “very good” and a “tough negotiator.” This respect translates into tangible benefits for Filipinos at home, such as lower prices, more jobs, and increased investments.
“When diplomacy results in lower prices for goods, more jobs for our workers, more protection for our borders and more investments in our communities, that is when it becomes real,” Romualdez said. “That is when the global becomes local.”
Sources said this milestone marks a significant step toward strengthening the Philippines’ role in international affairs while uplifting its citizens economically and socially.
For more news and updates on Philippine-US trade relations, visit Filipinokami.com.
