We respect the sovereign right of the US to implement a 20% increase in tariff on Philippine exports to the United States effective August 1, 2025. We are concerned however on the significant challenges this poses on the competitiveness of our industries with significant exports to the US market, industries that are within their value chain, and their workers.

This development underscores the importance of diversifying our export markets, strengthening regional trade partnerships, and investing in domestic competitiveness.

We call on our government for greater support to our local industries by increasing the budget for research, development, technology and market intelligence and improving our supply chain efficiency, infrastructure, and cost competitiveness. To remain viable in a shifting global market, we must accelerate investments in automation, logistics, and workforce upskilling.

We urge government to continue engaging with the US government to explore pathways toward a more equitable and sustainable trade relationship. We are hopeful that through a constructive dialogue, both governments will uphold a mutually beneficial trade relationship.

Now more than ever, our focus must be on fostering stable, rules-based trade grounded in shared prosperity and mutual respect.

We stand ready to work closely with our government agencies, exporters, and international partners to mitigate the impact of this tariff and to ensure that Philippine industries continue to thrive on the global stage.