Amid intense negotiations on a new trade pact between the Philippines and the United States, top economic and agriculture officials have moved to allay fears from local producers, vowing that the country’s key agricultural industries will not be sacrificed in the deal.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he has been assured that sensitive commodities such as rice, corn, sugar, chicken, fish and pork are being prioritized in ongoing discussions.
“Secretary Frederick Go and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque have assured us that the top priority for Philippine trade negotiators is protecting our local producers,” Tiu Laurel said.
The statement comes in the wake of a controversial pronouncement by US President Donald Trump that the Philippines has agreed to a 19 percent tariff on its exports to the United States — while allowing duty-free access for American goods entering the country.
Deal not final
Malacañang has since clarified that a final agreement has not yet been signed, and that technical negotiations are still underway.
Go, who serves as Special Assistant to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for Investment and Economic Affairs, emphasized that no concessions have been made that would endanger domestic producers. His remarks aim to ease growing concerns over the potential adverse impact of the trade deal on Philippine agriculture and manufacturing.
Go added that any agreement must “strike a balance between improving market access and safeguarding the livelihoods of Filipino workers and farmers,” underscoring the administration’s cautious approach.