MANILA — The Philippine government will push to revive talks on a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United States during the upcoming meeting between President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and US President Donald Trump, set to take place in April or May, according to Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel Romualdez.
In a Tuesday (04 Mar 2025) interview, Romualdez expressed optimism that the Trump administration would be open to pursuing bilateral FTAs, noting that trade relations should always be fair between nations. He added that the Philippines currently doesn’t have major trade issues with the US, as the trade surplus in favor of the Philippines is relatively small compared to other countries.
While discussions on a potential bilateral FTA were initiated during Trump’s first term, talks were stalled when the Biden administration showed no interest in new preferential trade agreements.
Both leaders have expressed interest in meeting in person, and Romualdez confirmed ongoing communication with the White House regarding the agenda and potential scheduling for the meeting.
Additionally, Romualdez highlighted Manila’s intention to explore the import of liquefied natural gas from Alaska, with the US planning to revive its long-delayed $44 billion gas pipeline project.
Looking ahead, the ambassador remains confident that the Philippines-US alliance will remain strong under President Trump’s leadership. He recalled that the alliance was previously described as “ironclad” during Trump’s first term. Romualdez emphasized that the Marcos administration is focused on strengthening both the country’s defense and economy, in preparation for future challenges.
“More than ever, we must be ready to defend ourselves,” he said, noting that bolstering the armed forces is a priority for President Marcos.
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WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump has reportedly fired several Justice Department officials who were involved in investigations related to him, including those working under former special counsel Jack Smith.
A letter obtained by CNN from acting Attorney General James McHenry informed the fired officials that their significant roles in prosecuting the President, coupled with a perceived lack of loyalty to Trump’s agenda, led to their dismissal.
McHenry emphasized the importance of trust in leadership, stating that these officials could no longer be relied upon to support the President’s priorities.
The identities of the dismissed personnel remain unknown.
Sourced online/ia/mnm
MANILA — incoming President Donald Trump announced over the weekend that his inauguration address, scheduled for next week, will be held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to forecasts of dangerously cold weather.
Trump shared the decision via a social media post, explaining that the Rotunda would host the swearing-in ceremony, with Capital One Arena in Washington also offering live viewing for the public.
The decision follows concerns over extreme temperatures, with windchill factors expected to cause record lows. Trump emphasized the safety of attendees, including law enforcement, first responders, and supporters, stating it was “dangerous” to hold the event outdoors in such conditions.
Trump also confirmed that other inaugural events, including the “Victory Rally” at Capital One Arena on Sunday and the inaugural balls on Monday night, will proceed as planned.
In addition, Trump’s inaugural committee revealed that he will use a Bible his mother gave him in 1955, alongside the Lincoln Bible, for the ceremony. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will use a family Bible passed down through his maternal side.
Trump concluded with a message of reassurance: “Everyone will be safe, everyone will be happy, and we will, together, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
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