Marcos set to fly to Washington on July 20 for talks with Trump
At A Glance
- Marcos' trip, which runs until July 22, will focus on strengthening trade, addressing the 20 percent tariff imposed on Philippine exports, and enhancing security collaboration between Manila and Washington.
President Marcos is set to depart for Washington, D.C., on July 20 for a three-day official visit aimed at bolstering economic and defense cooperation with the United States.
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and US President Donald Trump (Malacañang, White House photos)
Marcos’ trip, which runs until July 22, will focus on strengthening trade, addressing the 20 percent tariff imposed on Philippine exports, and enhancing security collaboration between Manila and Washington.
“During the visit, the two leaders (Marcos and Trump) will discuss closer cooperation in economic, defense, and security matters of common interest,” DFA Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano said in a Malacañang press briefing.
“The President’s official visit also aims to address the US tariff proposed to be levied on Philippine exports. The two presidents are also expected to discuss regional and international issues of common concern and how to further strengthen people-to-people ties,” she added.
The President is also expected to meet American business leaders who are preparing to expand investments in the Philippines, as part of efforts to deepen economic ties.
President Marcos’ visit comes at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, making him the first Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) head of state to be formally invited to Washington since Trump assumed office.
“This invitation is an affirmation of the regard that the United States has for the Philippines,” Solano said, citing the long-standing treaty alliance and historical ties between the two nations.
Aside from trade, Marcos will seek US support to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Talks are expected to include regional security issues, particularly the West Philippine Sea.
The President will meet with US State Secretary Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on July 21 before his high-level talks with Trump at the White House on July 22.
Due to the tight schedule, Marcos will not hold a meeting with the Filipino community during this visit. However, he is expected to invite Trump to attend the East Asia Summit in Manila when the Philippines chairs ASEAN in 2026.
Marcos’ visit also comes ahead of significant milestones in PH-US relations next year: the 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the 75th anniversary of the alliance.