Malacañang optimistic on PH-US trade deal progress

Malacañang is optimistic about the Philippines-US trade deal, stating that both countries have agreed to cooperate for the Philippines' economic development.

This optimism follows US President Donald Trump sending tariff letters to several Southeast Asian nations, including Japan, South Korea, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia, and Malaysia, with rates ranging from 25% to 40%.

The Philippines had initially been assigned a reciprocal tariff rate of 17%, and President Trump had previously announced a 90-day pause on higher reciprocal tariffs for the Philippines.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson indicated that both nations are diligently working to finalize a trade agreement.

Philippine officials, including Secretary Frederick D. Go, continue to negotiate with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to strengthen bilateral relations and address existing tariff rates.