PH prioritizes farmers, fisherfolk in US trade talks

The Philippine government is prioritizing the protection of its farmers and fisherfolk during ongoing trade negotiations with the United States concerning reciprocal tariffs.

Secretary of Agriculture Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that the country's negotiating team, led by Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, is in Washington D.C. to discuss these tariffs.

Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Asis Perez is also part of the Philippine delegation.

Laurel assured agricultural stakeholders that the government aims to prevent further liberalization of the local market to US farm producers.

He emphasized that the goal is not to increase import volumes but to safeguard domestic industries.

While acknowledging that concessions are inevitable in trade talks, Laurel expressed confidence in Go's ability to secure the best possible outcome for the Philippines, including its agriculture sector.