MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will coordinate with the United States government to assess the potential impact of President Donald Trump’s temporary suspension of foreign aid, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced on Saturday.
According to the PCO, the DFA is actively monitoring reports of the suspension and will work with the US Department of State to evaluate its effects on the Philippines.
In line with Trump’s directive, the US State Department issued a “stop-work” order for existing foreign assistance and halted new aid. This 90-day pause aims to review the efficiency and alignment of foreign aid with US foreign policy.
The US is a major donor to the Philippines, contributing around USD147.7 million in 2023 as part of its Official Development Assistance (ODA).
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega emphasized that the suspension would not “severely affect” the Philippines, citing the country’s strong economic ties with the US as a major trade partner.
De Vega also clarified that while some countries like Egypt and Israel are exempt from such freezes due to geopolitical considerations, the Philippines remains engaged in ongoing discussions with the US on the matter.
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