Senator Imee Marcos expressed concern over the outcome of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly the tariff terms that followed the discussion.
In a social media post, Trump claimed that U.S. products entering the Philippines would now be tariff-free, while Philippine exports to the U.S. would still face a 19% tariff—down only one percent from the previous 20%.
Senator Marcos said the figures alone raise questions about whether the Philippines actually gained anything from the agreement. She stressed the imbalance in the trade terms, especially considering the country’s long-standing ties with the U.S.
Senator JV Ejercito also criticized the deal, calling it “clearly one-sided.” Although he hopes the U.S. will act fairly, he said the outcome did not reflect a balanced relationship.
Former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson echoed the criticism, calling the result “an insult” and urging the Philippines to consider other trade partners beyond the United States.
President Marcos has not commented in detail but earlier clarified that the 19% tariff was not solely decided by the Philippine government.
