A SENATE budget hearing on Tuesday saw Senator Imee Marcos sharply criticizing the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for its limited role in ongoing negotiations over proposed U.S. tariffs on Philippine exports-measures that could severely impact key industries such as electronics and BPO.
Marcos, who chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, argued that the issue goes beyond trade and touches on strategic defense and economic access, demanding a whole-of-government response.
She described the current approach as ‘solo flights’ by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which she said lacked negotiating alternatives and strategic depth.
‘The impact on our economy is heavy,’ Marcos warned. ‘They don’t know how to negotiate. It’s a unilateral imposition by the U.S. and we’re not responding with unity.’
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro explained that the DFA’s involvement had been limited, as the tariff issue was assigned to DTI. She noted that DFA is actively engaged in other trade negotiations, such as the Philippine-EU Free Trade Agreement.
‘This particular issue of tariffs is something that has been given to the Department of Trade and Industry,’ Lazaro said.
Marcos pushed back, questioning why DFA was sidelined in what she called the ‘heaviest’ trade issue facing the country.
She emphasized that the matter involves quid pro quo arrangements tied to defense treaties and economic access-areas where diplomatic expertise is crucial.
‘Why isn’t the DFA included? It should be an all-of-government approach,’ she said.
Lazaro responded that the DFA is ready to assist when called and that the Philippine embassy in Washington is actively engaged.
‘Kung kami naman po, pag tinawag, nandiyan kami,’ Lazaro said.
Beyond institutional critique, Marcos also cast doubt on the capacity of Philippine Ambassador to Washington D.C. Jose Manuel Romualdez-her cousin-to lead negotiations with the U.S.
‘Yes, but once again, that extremely notorious family that I know nothing about. Indeed. Okay. Hindi naman siya professional diplomat. Iba na rin ang trained and career diplomat. With all due respect to my much older cousin,’ Marcos said.
Her remarks reflect a broader pattern of public criticism toward the administration of her younger brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Senator Marcos has repeatedly questioned the government’s handling of key issues-from her open support for Vice President Sara Duterte in political disputes, to concerns over foreign policy direction and economic strategy-underscoring persistent tensions within the ruling coalition.
Background: U.S. Tariff Threat on Philippine Exports
In July 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a proposed 19% tariff on Philippine exports, targeting a wide range of goods and services. The move sparked alarm across industries and government agencies, with exporters warning of a potential 50-60% drop in U.S. orders.
DTI has led the negotiations, with Undersecretary Allan Gepty clarifying that the tariff is not yet final and remains under review. A high-level Philippine delegation, including Special Assistant to the President Frederick Go, was dispatched to Washington to seek exemptions.