Latest news with #FilipinoAmericans
Qatar Tribune
a day ago
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Trump says US will charge 19% tariff on goods from Philippines
Agencies U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a new 19% tariff rate for goods from the Philippines after what he called a 'beautiful visit' by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the White House, saying U.S. goods would pay zero tariffs. Trump posted the news on his Truth Social media platform after meeting with Marcos in the Oval Office, where he had signaled a deal could be reached during the visit.'It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff,' Trump said, calling Marcos a 'very good and tough negotiator.' Trump said the two Pacific allies would also work together militarily but gave no details. Marcos, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet Trump in his second term, told reporters at the start of the meeting that the United States was his country's 'strongest, closest, most reliable ally.' The 19% tariff rate was just below the 20% threatened by Trump earlier this month, but above the 17% rate set in April when Trump announced what he called reciprocal tariff rates for dozens of countries. It matches the 19% rate announced for Indonesia and bests Vietnam's slightly higher rate of 20%.The United States had a deficit of nearly $5 billion with the Philippines last year on bilateral goods trade of $23.5 billion. Trump said the two countries did 'a lot of business' with each other, adding the 'very big numbers' in the trade agreement would only grow larger. During the Oval Office event, Trump said he may visit China for a landmark trip 'in the not-too-distant future' and noted the Philippines had distanced itself from Beijing after his election last November. 'The country was maybe tilting toward China, but we un-tilted it very, very quickly,' Trump said. The U.S. president has sought to lower tensions with Beijing in recent weeks after pausing a tit-for-tat tariff war that has upended global trade and supply chains. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday he would meet with Chinese officials in Sweden next warn Trump's tariffs on nearly all foreign goods could boost prices for U.S. consumers, complicating his push for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. No comment was immediately available from Marcos, who did not speak to reporters before leaving the White House grounds. Philippine Assistant Foreign Secretary Raquel Solano said last week trade officials have been working with U.S. counterparts seeking to seal a 'mutually acceptable and mutually beneficial' deal. Protesters gathered near the White House as Marcos arrived, demanding the Philippine leader address pleas of Filipino Americans and migrant workers who have made multiple requests for support amid U.S. immigration raids. Trump underscored the importance of the U.S.-Philippine military relationship. 'They're a very important nation militarily, and we've had some great drills lately,' he who arrived in Washington on Sunday, met with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday. During his trip, he will also meet U.S. business leaders investing in the Philippines. Philippine officials say Marcos planned to stress that Manila must become economically stronger if it is to serve as a truly robust U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific. He told reporters his country was modernizing its military in response to tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea.
GMA Network
a day ago
- Business
- GMA Network
Trump says US will charge 19% tariff on goods from Philippines
The 19% tariff rate was just below the 20% threatened by Trump earlier this month, but above the 17% rate set in April when Trump announced what he called reciprocal tariff rates for dozens of countries. (Photo by Reuters) WASHINGTON —US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a new 19% tariff rate for goods from the Philippines after what he called a "beautiful visit" by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the White House, saying U.S. goods would pay zero tariffs. Trump posted the news on his Truth Social media platform after meeting with Marcos in the Oval Office, where he had signaled a deal could be reached during the visit. "It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff," Trump said, calling Marcos a "very good and tough negotiator." Trump said the two Pacific allies would also work together militarily but gave no details. Marcos, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet Trump in his second term, told reporters at the start of the meeting that the United States was his country's "strongest, closest, most reliable ally." The 19% tariff rate was just below the 20% threatened by Trump earlier this month, but above the 17% rate set in April when Trump announced what he called reciprocal tariff rates for dozens of countries. It matches the 19% rate announced for Indonesia and bests Vietnam's slightly higher rate of 20%. The United States had a deficit of nearly $5 billion with the Philippines last year on bilateral goods trade of $23.5 billion. Trump said the two countries did "a lot of business" with each other, adding the "very big numbers" in the trade agreement would only grow larger. During the Oval Office event, Trump said he may visit China for a landmark trip "in the not-too-distant future" and noted the Philippines had distanced itself from Beijing after his election last November. "The country was maybe tilting toward China, but we un-tilted it very, very quickly," Trump said. The U.S. president has sought to lower tensions with Beijing in recent weeks after pausing a tit-for-tat tariff war that has upended global trade and supply chains. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday he would meet with Chinese officials in Sweden next week. Critics warn Trump's tariffs on nearly all foreign goods could boost prices for U.S. consumers, complicating his push for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. No comment was immediately available from Marcos, who did not speak to reporters before leaving the White House grounds. Philippine Assistant Foreign Secretary Raquel Solano said last week trade officials have been working with U.S. counterparts seeking to seal a "mutually acceptable and mutually beneficial" deal. Protesters gathered near the White House as Marcos arrived, demanding the Philippine leader address pleas of Filipino Americans and migrant workers who have made multiple requests for support amid U.S. immigration raids. Trump underscored the importance of the U.S.-Philippine military relationship. "They're a very important nation militarily, and we've had some great drills lately," he said. Marcos, who arrived in Washington on Sunday, met with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday. During his trip, he will also meet U.S. business leaders investing in the Philippines. Philippine officials say Marcos planned to stress that Manila must become economically stronger if it is to serve as a truly robust U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific. He told reporters his country was modernizing its military in response to tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea.—Reuters
The Star
3 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Filipino Americans brace for impact of Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'
LOS ANGELES: As the United States moves forward with implementing President Donald Trump's sweeping legislative package – dubbed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' – many Filipino American communities are bracing for policy changes that could significantly impact their daily lives. From immigration and healthcare to education and remittances, advocates warn that the proposed reforms may jeopardise vital support systems for thousands of immigrant families across the country. Described by supporters as a move toward fiscal efficiency, the bill contains deep cuts to Medicaid, stricter work requirements for food assistance programmes, expanded funding for deportations and a controversial new tax on international remittances. One of the bill's most alarming aspects is its potential impact on healthcare access for millions of low-income Americans. Filipino Americans, many of whom work in frontline healthcare roles, are particularly vulnerable to the Medicaid funding cuts. This federal-state programme serves as a lifeline for many, offering essential medical coverage and preventive care. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to ten million Americans — primarily from communities of colour — could lose Medicaid coverage by 2034. For Filipino Americans, who already experience healthcare disparities and face higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, the proposed changes could deepen existing inequalities. According to the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), 'Medicaid is used to pay for 70 per cent of home care and is often care workers' only pathway to affordable, quality care for themselves. These massive cuts are going to have a ripple effect throughout our communities – countless care workers will lose their jobs and their healthcare.' Jessica Caloza, representing California's 52nd Assembly District, which encompasses several Los Angeles County communities with significant Filipino American presence, such as Eagle Rock, South Glendale and Historic Filipino Town, warns that 'the Big Beautiful Bill is dangerous and will harm many of our Filipino families.' 'It gives tax breaks to the rich while slashing numerous safety net programmes, including the largest single cut to food stamps as poverty reaches a two-decade high, and a US$1 trillion cut to Medicaid,' Caloza emphasised in her statement. Major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP), or 'food stamps,' could severely impact working-class Filipino American families – especially those in mixed-status households (with undocumented parents and US-born children, for example). These benefits often allow families to afford healthier, more expensive food options. Perla Bermudez Santos, founder of the MoTHER Movement, a Los Angeles-based group of Filipino American mothers and seniors, and co-author of 'Caregiving Manual II: Skills and Strategies for Compassionate Care,' noted that while members appreciate new tax deductions and the exemption of Social Security benefits from federal taxes, serious concerns remain. 'Members are worried about the rising cost of fruits, vegetables and other nutritious food options,' said Santos. 'Many seniors receive just US$1,000 a month in retirement benefits and must cover rent, food, transportation, clothing and other essentials. For them, supplemental food benefits are vital to making ends meet.' Another contentious provision is a one per cent excise tax on remittances sent abroad – impacting green card holders, visa workers and undocumented immigrants, including many Filipino Americans. With over US$10 billion in annual remittances sent to the Philippines, this tax could significantly reduce support to families abroad and affect local economies dependent on overseas funds. The bill also proposes 100 per cent tax deductions for donations to private school voucher programmes, a move critics argue could siphon funding from public schools. Many students of colour – including Filipino Americans – attend underfunded public schools that rely on government support. Additionally, expanded funding for immigration enforcement – including a US$170 billion allocation, with US$75 billion earmarked for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – has stoked fear among the estimated 340,000 undocumented Filipino Americans. Many are longtime residents, essential workers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients now facing heightened uncertainty. Caloza, an immigrant and lifelong public servant who has advocated for working families throughout her various roles at the federal, state and local levels, condemned the bill's immigration provisions. 'I'm devastated by the unrest and fear that families – including Filipinos – in our communities face due to the ongoing ICE raids and increased immigration enforcement,' Caloza said. 'Our taxpayer dollars should go toward our schools, parks, libraries and hospitals – and for communities like mine that have been devastated by wildfires. We also need to invest in emergency recovery,' she added. Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organisations, echoed that sentiment: 'This legislation prioritises harmful immigration crackdowns at the expense of the urgent needs of everyday Americans.' In response, Filipino American organisations across the country are launching efforts to educate and support affected families through town halls, legal clinics and resource guides. AAAJ stated, 'The Reconciliation Bill directly attacks not just immigrant communities, but all Americans who rely on essential health and nutrition programmes. We need laws that invest in opportunities and our future – not laws that cater to the mega-rich and funnel resources into systems of exclusion and cruelty.' The National Domestic Workers Alliance expressed similar resolve: 'Today, our hearts are heavy. We fought tirelessly – standing shoulder-to-shoulder at vigils, rallies and lobbying blitzes. Now, it's time to turn our grief and outrage into powerful action.' 'We are mobilising to hold accountable every lawmaker who chose cruelty over compassion. In just a few weeks, our massive Protect Medicaid Mobilisations will send an undeniable message: these heartless cuts will have consequences,' the organisation added. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which includes 73 members advocating for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, held a press conference addressing the bill's devastating consequences. 'We are united in our commitment to protecting Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from harmful policies that threaten our rights, our safety and our well-being,' said Rep. Grace Meng, CAPAC Chair. 'Instead of working to lower costs, as he promised on day one, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are waging endless culture wars. This is not what the American people want. CAPAC will continue to fight tooth and nail to protect our rights, hold our leaders accountable and ensure our voices are heard.' NAFCON USA, a coalition of Filipino grassroots organisations and nonprofits, also issued a call to action: 'We urge everyone to get involved, take action and stand alongside Filipino organisations to organise, defend our communities and build the future we deserve.' With the bill's implementation, Filipino Americans find themselves at a critical crossroads – confronting not only sweeping legislative changes but also profound personal consequences for their families and communities. For many, the looming enactment of Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' marks a defining moment in their ongoing struggle for dignity, security and the American dream. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
Politico
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Politico
How an Arizona special election is inflaming Democratic divides
'As a mother and lifelong public servant in this community, I've lived the challenges our families face under Trump's anti-Latino policies, and have spent my career standing up for immigrant rights,' Grijalva said in a statement. 'I will bring the same fight and resistance to this anti-immigrant Administration.' Foxx, who would be one of two Filipino Americans in Congress if elected, has been calling out the party's failure to stand up to President Donald Trump and is going after the late Grijalva for not resigning and thus making Republicans' megabill easier to pass. She has also painted Adelita Grijalva as part of the 'establishment.' 'Hundreds of thousands of people in my district, myself included, my friends, my family, my neighbors have been without a representative because of the passing,' Foxx said in a Tuesday interview. 'At a time where this budget bill stands to impact so many of us, we have had nobody voting on our behalf, nobody fighting for us.' Hogg and his PAC did not respond directly to BOLD PAC's statement, instead focusing on highlighting their endorsed candidate. Foxx, Hogg said in a statement, 'brings unmatched clarity, conviction, and lived experience to some of the toughest challenges working families face.' 'She is equipped to fight back against Trump because he's attacking the very programs that she's relied on for her survival,' he added. Foxx brushed aside concerns about Hispanic representation, saying the role 'can look a lot of different ways' and citing her ties to the the district's younger, working-class communities. Hernandez and Grijalva are vowing to stand up to Trump. But like Foxx, Hernandez has painted Grijalva as an extension of the Democrats whom they view as somewhat acquiescent and has pointed to the support from national groups like BOLD PAC as evidence nothing will change. 'It's not surprising that the daughter of a congressman who was in Congress for over 20 years is getting the establishment endorsement,' Hernandez said in an interview on Tuesday. With under a week before the election, Hernandez spent almost $479,000 on TV ads, to Foxx's roughly $471,500 and Grijalva's near $309,000, according to AdImpact, which tracks political advertising. Outside spending has ramped up in the race as well. Some pro-Grijalva groups have also played in the race. The Working Families Party, which endorsed her in late May, spent just under $150,000, mostly on broadcast ads. Progressive Promise, the Congressional Progressive Caucus and the League of Conservation Voters have also bought ads in the area, per AdImpact.
GMA Network
03-07-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
PAL to add more Manila-Seattle flights by November 2025
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) on Thursday said it will boost the frequency of flights between Manila and Seattle to five times weekly starting in November, citing the growing demand to and from the US West Coast and beyond. PAL said it will start Tuesday and Thursday departures from Manila and Seattle on November 25. Flight PR 124 will leave Manila at 10:40 p.m. and arrive in Seattle at 7:35 p.m. Meanwhile, flight PR 125 will leave Seattle at 11:30 p.m. and arrive in Manila at 4:05 a.m. PAL currently operates the same flights every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday with a Boeing 777-300ER long-range jetliner, accommodating 370 passengers with 42 seats in business class and 328 in economy class. 'Our decision to increase frequencies to Seattle highlights the importance of the US market to the Philippine Airlines global network, and in particular the great value of Seattle as a gateway, not just to the Washington and Oregon areas, but to cities across the United States that we can now serve through our ongoing partnership with Alaska Airlines,' PAL president Richard Nuttall said in an emailed statement. 'We are focusing strongly on developing this growing market to help Americans plan their vacation trips to the Philippines and other Asian countries, to open up more opportunities for businesses to build up commercial activities, and for Filipino Americans to reunite more often with their families back in the home country,' he added. PAL serves eight destinations in the US and Canada, including nonstop flights to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Toronto, Honolulu, and Guam. PAL ended the first quarter of the year with a $77 million net income, down from $80.9 million in the same period last year. It flew 4.1 million passengers during the quarter, up 5% year-on-year. The carrier in April announced key changes in its leadership, with British national and airline industry executive Richard Nuttall taking over as president effective May 29, 2025.
