Trump and Marcos Meet to Tackle Tariffs, Security
2 min read
JULY 18,2025
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will meet former U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. on July 20 to strengthen US-Philippine ties. Their agenda includes tariffs on Philippine exports, defense cooperation, and regional security concerns.
This marks the first time a sitting ASEAN leader will meet with Trump.
Marcos Pushes for Fairer Tariff Terms
The Philippine government aims to ease the impact of the 20% U.S. tariff on its exports. Marcos hopes to secure a more favorable deal through direct dialogue.
“For the Philippines to be a truly strong partner of the United States, we must also grow economically,” said DFA Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano in a Palace briefing on July 18.
The U.S. initially set a 17% tariff on Philippine goods, which later increased to 20%, matching rates imposed on other Southeast Asian nations. Ahead of the meeting, the Philippines sent a trade delegation to Washington to lay the groundwork for negotiations.
Trump and Marcos Security Talks and ASEAN Summit Invitatio
Beyond trade, Marcos and Trump will also talk about defense matters, including tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The leaders aim to align on regional security and military cooperation.
Marcos also plans to invite Trump to the ASEAN Summit in 2026, which the Philippines will host. Global leaders and ASEAN heads are expected to attend.
“They will also discuss regional and global issues and how to build stronger ties between our people,” Solano added.
More Meetings and Potential Investments
Before his sit-down with Trump on June 22, Marcos will meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on June 21. These talks will focus on trade, defense, and national security.
Several U.S. businesses have requested meetings with Marcos. While the Department of Foreign Affairs hasn’t released details yet, the interest signals potential investment opportunities.
Accompanying President Marcos on his U.S. trip are key cabinet members: NOWTREND
- DFA Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro
- Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
- Trade Secretary Christina Roque
- National Security Adviser Eduardo Año
- Communications Secretary Dave Gomez
- Investment Affairs Head Frederick Go
- Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez
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