PH Optimistic About Securing Free Trade Agreement with US Under Trump’s Second Term

MANILA – The Philippines is optimistic about securing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States under the second administration of US President Donald Trump, according to Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez.

Romualdez stated that the Philippines has a “good chance” of finalizing an FTA, as discussions had already begun during Trump’s first term, but were cut short. He noted that sectoral agreements, particularly in minerals, semiconductors, and defense manufacturing, could provide stronger opportunities for economic cooperation.

In addition, Romualdez expressed confidence that the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which expired in 2020, could be renewed with the Republican-led Congress. This program previously allowed duty-free entry of Philippine exports into the US.

However, the ongoing US-China trade tensions may impact the Philippines’ economic relations with both superpowers. Romualdez acknowledged that while the West Philippine Sea dispute remains a challenge, the Philippines aims to balance economic ties with both the US and China.