President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left Sunday for a three-day official visit to the United States, aiming to negotiate a new trade deal, address US tariffs on Philippine exports and discuss defense matters with President Donald Trump.
Marcos emphasized the visit’s priority: “boosting economic engagement” and securing a “mutually beneficial” bilateral trade deal.
He said he also seeks to address a “severe tariff schedule,” referring to a 20 percent US tariff on Philippine exports set to take effect next month.
Defense and security matters are also high on the agenda in his fifth visit to the US.
Marcos intends to reaffirm the long-standing alliance between the two states, framing it as a “catalyst for peace and development” in the Asia-Pacific.
While Marcos is away, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III will comprise a caretaker committee ensuring uninterrupted governance.
Marcos will remain in constant communication with Manila, with the committee authorized to act on his behalf for daily operations.
Marcos also plans to meet with US business leaders to explore investment opportunities for the Philippine economy.
