VP Sara, Thanks to the Indigenous People and Moro Who Expressed Their Willingness to Ensure Her Safety

As global economic tensions rise, mainly through tariffs and trade wars between major powers, countries like the Philippines find themselves in a vulnerable position. While not directly involved in the disputes between giants like the U.S. and China, the Philippines, being an open, trade-dependent economy, feels the ripple effects deeply.

In an era where the world is tightly connected through supply chains, finance, and digital platforms, the Philippines must remain alert, adaptive, and strategic in responding to these global shocks.

What Are Tariffs and Trade Wars?

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, often used to protect local industries. When countries retaliate with their own tariffs, it escalates into a trade war, disrupting global commerce and raising prices across economies.

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The U.S.-China trade war, for example, had a global impact, slowing down trade volumes, shifting supply chains, and creating economic uncertainty. Though the Philippines wasn’t a direct participant, it still suffered collateral damage due to its ties with both nations.

How It Impacts the Philippines

Export Industry at Risk

The Philippines heavily relies on exports, particularly electronics, semiconductors, and agricultural goods. Trade wars that affect global demand or disrupt trade routes can result in slower export growth, loss of orders, and lower foreign earnings.

Inflation and Higher Costs for Consumers

Tariffs drive up the prices of imported goods and raw materials. As costs increase, Filipino businesses often pass them onto consumers. This can worsen inflation—already a concern due to global fuel prices and food shortages—making everyday life harder for ordinary citizens.

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Job Uncertainty in Key Sectors

Trade-related industries such as manufacturing, electronics, and BPOs may face a slowdown if international demand shrinks. When multinational corporations adjust their operations or shift to other countries, Filipino jobs are at risk.

Weaker Peso and Financial Volatility

Global trade tensions often affect investor confidence. Capital flight to safer economies can weaken the Philippine peso, raise borrowing costs, and create financial instability, especially for a country still recovering from the economic effects of the pandemic.

Limited Buffer for Economic Shocks

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Unlike some countries, the Philippines has limited fiscal and foreign reserves to cushion the impact of a prolonged trade war. A lack of contingency planning and slow policy response could amplify the damage.

Dependency on Imported Essentials

From oil and fuel to machinery and food items, the Philippines imports many of its essentials. Any disruption in global trade or spike in international prices can directly affect supply and affordability at home.

What Can the Philippines Do?

Despite the risks, there are paths forward:

Diversify Trade Partners: Strengthen ties beyond traditional allies—look more to ASEAN, the EU, India, and Africa.

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Strengthen Local Industries: Invest in agriculture, manufacturing, and tech to reduce import dependence and improve food and energy security.

Develop Strategic Reserves: Build buffers like food stocks, fuel storage, and emergency funds to prepare for external shocks.

Support Innovation and MSMEs: Help small businesses upgrade their competitiveness and connect to global value chains.

Push for Multilateralism: Stay active in trade negotiations and regional blocs to protect Philippine interests.

Conclusion

While the Philippines may not be a driver of global trade tensions, it cannot afford to be a passive observer. The country must adapt swiftly, build resilience, and invest in long-term solutions that protect the economy and the Filipino people.

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Tariff and trade wars remind us of a harsh truth: In an interconnected world, economic decisions made far away can hit close to home. But with smart policies, strategic leadership, and a united citizenry, the Philippines can not only survive—but thrive.

You don’t expect sticker shock at your local Filipino grocery store. But when a jar of macapuno or ube suddenly costs $8 to $10, you start asking questions.

That’s the reality many Asian American families are facing as President Donald Trump’s new tariffs—ranging from 10% to as high as 46%—take effect. Products from Asia, including food staples and cultural items, are becoming more expensive, directly impacting daily life and identity.

“It’s cheaper to stay home and make root beer floats,” one shopper joked, skipping the now-pricey imported Filipino goods. But for many, this isn’t just about saving money. It’s about staying connected to their roots, their culture, and their families through food and tradition.

The pain is real—and it’s not just felt in the checkout line.

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Across the country, protests erupted this weekend, from Boston to Sacramento, as tens of thousands took to the streets to decry the administration’s policies, including the tariff war. Signs read: “Tariffs Cost Us Trillions in Two Days!”—a reference to the $6.6 trillion stock market loss following trade-related announcements.

The economic burden goes beyond consumers. Asian American small businesses—restaurants, grocery stores, importers—are struggling too. Higher import costs make it harder for them to stay afloat and compete, affecting jobs and livelihoods in local communities.

While some lawmakers, even Republicans like Sen. Ted Cruz, are starting to push back, calling the strategy “terrible for America,” Trump presses forward. Economists have criticized the rationale behind the tariffs, calling it outdated and based on flawed trade math that ignores America’s strengths in services.

Meanwhile, countries like China and Vietnam have retaliated with their own tariffs. As global trade tensions escalate, the U.S. risks isolating itself and damaging long-term economic prospects.

For many Asian Americans, these aren’t just numbers—they’re lived experiences. It’s the rising cost of that special sauce for pancit, the specific rice your grandmother used, or the electronics that bring your family closer together.

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These tariffs aren’t just about economics. They’re cultural. They’re personal.

And as prices rise and traditions grow harder to maintain, many are asking: What now?

The answer may lie in the growing people’s movement—ordinary Americans pushing back against policies that harm families and communities. Because when economic decisions start to erode identity, it’s no longer just about politics—it’s about who we are, and how we live.

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MANILA – The Senate has proposed to start the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on July 30, following a structured pre-trial process to ensure a fair and orderly proceeding, Senate President Francis Escudero announced on Thursday.

Escudero confirmed that preparations would begin on June 2, when the Senate resumes session. Prosecutors will present the Articles of Impeachment, and senators will approve revised trial rules.

On June 3, the Impeachment Court will convene, and senator judges will take their oaths. By June 4, the Senate is expected to issue a summons to Duterte.

From June 14 to 24, the prosecution and defense will exchange legal pleadings. Pre-trial proceedings will take place from June 24 to July 25, establishing the trial framework and organizing the presentation of evidence.

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With the 20th Congress set to open on July 28, after the May 12 midterm elections, newly elected senators will take their oaths on July 29, officially seating them as Impeachment Court judges. The trial will begin on July 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.

Escudero said the Senate is implementing security measures, logistical arrangements, and legal preparations to prevent delays.

“We are ensuring that all necessary resources – from security protocols to legal support – are in place before proceedings begin,” he said.

The Senate has procured robes for senator judges, improved court documentation procedures, and engaged external legal consultants to assist in the case.

The House of Representatives transmitted the verified impeachment complaint against Duterte to the Senate on Feb. 5, triggering its constitutional role as an Impeachment Court.

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Escudero assured the public that the Senate will uphold due process and impartiality throughout the proceedings.

“The integrity of this impeachment trial is paramount. We are duty-bound to conduct the process with professionalism and transparency,” he said. (PIA)