Washington: Philippine exports to the United States will now be subject to a 19 percent tariff, down from the 20 percent Washington initially planned to impose, US President Donald Trump announced following what he called a 'beautiful visit' by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the White House. Part of the new deal includes granting zero tariffs for American products bound for the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Trump posted on his Truth Social account that the Philippines will pay a 19% tariff, and described the meeting as a successful conclusion of their trade deal. Trump expressed admiration for Marcos, calling him a 'very good and tough negotiator.'

Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the US comprised the highest export value amounting to USD1.115 billion, or 15.3 percent of the country's total exports in May this year. This development is expected to have significant implications for the trade relations between the two countries.

Marcos, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet with Trump during his second term, reaffirmed the bilateral alliance, calling the US the Philippines' 'strongest, closest, most reliable ally.' Both leaders also signaled expanded military cooperation, envisioning deeper ties in defense and security matters.