Philippine officials meet with their United States counterparts in Washington, D.C. on May 2, 2025 to push for tariff relief amid new trade measures under the Trump administration. The meeting was described as productive, with both sides hopeful for mutually beneficial outcomes. (Courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C.)
The Philippines is hopeful about securing a more equitable trade agreement with the United States following what officials described as “very positive” discussions with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on May 2.
Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, led the high-level Philippine delegation to Washington, D.C., and reported that the meeting with USTR Jamieson Greer “went very well.”
Joining Go were Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez.
The delegation sought tariff relief after a 17-percent reciprocal tariff was imposed on Philippine exports by the administration of former President Donald Trump. While that rate is currently paused, it has been temporarily replaced by a blanket 10-percent tariff in effect for 90 days.
Though no agreement has been finalized, Go said the discussions signaled renewed momentum in deepening U.S.-Philippine trade relations.
“We are optimistic that these talks mark the start of a process that will lead to mutually beneficial arrangements, strengthening our trade partnership and helping diversify our export markets,” said Go, a key economic official in the Marcos administration.
He also emphasized that safeguarding domestic industries was a priority throughout the negotiations—a stance echoed by Trade Secretary Roque.
“We clearly communicated our local industries’ needs and concerns to the USTR, and we are hopeful this will lead to favorable outcomes,” Roque said.
Philippine Ambassador Romualdez had earlier told the Philippine News Agency that the government remains confident of reaching a “good and mutually beneficial agreement.”