PH, US discuss reciprocal tariffs, military sales in high-level diplomatic talks

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to deepen economic and defense cooperation during a high-level meeting in Washington with both sides tackling reciprocal tariffs, regional security, and military modernization.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to bolster economic ties. In a statement both leaders expressed optimism over the “positive conclusion” of high-level negotiations concerning reciprocal tariffs.

The two secretaries also committed to exploring trilateral cooperation with regional partners, particularly Japan, through initiatives such as the Luzon Economic Corridor, seen as a strategic counterbalance to China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Defense and security also featured prominently in the talks, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation amid mounting tensions in the South China Sea. Secretary Rubio reiterated US support for the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts, including the proposed sale of US military assets and enhanced collaboration through the annual Balikatan joint military exercises.

The meeting is the latest in a series of high-level engagements between the two officials, following their phone call in January and a face-to-face meeting at the Munich Security Conference in March. Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez also joined Secretary Manalo during the talks.

In a statement, the US State Department said the alliance remains vital to maintaining a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” with both leaders aligned on confronting China’s destabilizing actions in the South China Sea.

Manalo is set to deliver remarks at key UN events in New York, including a meeting with UN chief Antonio Guterres on June 11.