Manila: Malaca±ang on Friday said the Philippines will continue engaging the United States following Washington's decision to impose an additional 12.5-percent tariff on Manila due to alleged failure to prevent the entry of goods produced with forced labor. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro highlighted that while the Philippines respects the U.S.'s decision, Manila maintains a policy against forced labor.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro stated that during the review with the U.S., the Philippines emphasized its strong stance against forced labor. She mentioned that the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Finance, and Department of Labor and Employment had signed a Joint Administrative Order to prevent the importation of products made through forced labor. Castro emphasized the commitment of the Philippines to continue discussions with the U.S. on the matter while examining the exemptions' implications on Philippine exports.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced on Friday the imposition of a 12.5-percent tariff on the Philippines. This decision followed an investigation into the U.S.'s key trading partners, where findings indicated that the Philippines had not effectively enforced a prohibition on forced labor imports.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque reaffirmed the importance of the strategic relationship between the Philippines and the U.S. She emphasized the significance of maintaining strong trade ties, particularly in sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, and key agricultural products, which contribute to the stability of the U.S. supply chain.