Marcos Jr. meets Trump in Washington to negotiate tariffs and strengthen ties

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Washington D.C. on Sunday, July 20, ahead of his fifth visit aimed at negotiating the new 20% tariff imposed on Philippine exports and fostering greater economic engagement with the U.S.

During his three-day trip, Marcos was welcomed by Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez and US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, marking his first official meeting with President Donald Trump since Trump returned to the White House in January.

On Tuesday morning, July 22, Marcos Jr. met with President Trump at the White House where they reaffirmed their 'good relationship' and expressed confidence about finalizing a trade agreement that would be mutually beneficial for both nations.

Prior to his meeting with Trump, Philippine officials met with State Secretary Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on July 21 (DC time), during which US officials assured Marcos that the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to Philippine forces anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.

The visit aims to address issues in the West Philippine Sea, foster economic ties with American business leaders, discuss defense commitments for the 75th anniversary of their Mutual Defense Treaty, and establish a joint ammunition and manufacturing storage facility in Subic Bay.