Marcos Heads to US for Talks With Trump on Trade, Security
'I intend to convey to President Trump and his cabinet officials that the Philippines is ready to negotiate a bilateral trade deal that will ensure strong, mutually beneficial, and future-oriented collaborations that only the United States and the Philippines will be able to take advantage of,' Marcos said.
The three-day visit, which runs from July 20 to 22, will include meetings with US President Donald Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Marcos also emphasized that while the agenda will focus on defense and security, trade issues — especially the 20% tariff on Filipino goods — will be a key part of discussions.
'This visit reaffirms our commitment to fostering our long-standing alliances as an instrument of peace and a catalyst of development in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world,' he added.
Several American businesses are also seeking to meet with the Philippine leader, according to Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano. Marcos is expected to invite Trump to attend the East Asia Summit, which the Philippines will host during its ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.
Marcos is the first ASEAN head of state to make an official visit to the US under Trump's current term.
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