Philippine manufacturers expressed appreciation that Philippine trade officials adopted a strong and locally anchored position while negotiating for the U.S. reciprocal tariff, stating the exclusion of the manufacturing and agriculture industries and opening the Philippine market only to imported items that are not locally produced are strong steps toward protecting the country’s own industries.
“We’ve taken note of the recent joint statement by Secretary Frederick Go and Secretary Cristina Roque regarding the new trade agreement between the Philippines and the United States. We appreciate their clear stand—our key local agricultural and manufacturing sectors are not part of the tariff concessions. That’s a strong step toward protecting our own industries,” said Elizabeth H. Lee, newly elected chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), which groups the country’s remaining few manufacturing sectors.
Still, she said, it’s early days as both Secretaries mentioned, the details of the deal aren’t final yet. “At the end of the day, we all want growth—but it has to be balanced, fair, and locally anchored,” Lee pointed out.
Lee further noted the stand of the Philippine negotiators that the imports getting zero-tariff treatment are mostly critical materials that are not produced in the country, like inputs for healthcare. “If handled right, this could help certain sectors lower costs without putting local producers at risk,” she added.
Conducting structured consultations with industry stakeholders, coupled with transparent disclosure of products covered by the agreement, can help mitigate potential adverse impacts. These measures may also support the timely activation of appropriate safeguard mechanisms for sectors at risk.
“We stand ready to collaborate with DTI and relevant agencies to ensure that economic openness does not compromise national industrial resilience. The Federation will continue to champion the interests of Philippine manufacturers, protect workers, and foster long-term competitiveness,” she said.
Meanwhile, the FPI, the Voice of Industry, formally announced the election of its new officers and the upcoming FPI Business Summit 2025, reaffirming its commitment to advancing a strong, competitive, and resilient Philippine manufacturing sector.
Dr. Jesus L. Arranza has been named Chairman Emeritus, honoring his decades of unwavering leadership in championing Filipino industry, fighting smuggling, and advocating for fair trade. Stepping into the role of chairman is Ms. Elizabeth H. Lee, a pioneering figure in automotive and advanced manufacturing, known for her commitment to sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. She is the first woman to hold this position in our organization’s history. Joining her as president is Mr. John Reinier Dizon, a respected industry leader dedicated to local manufacturing and close collaboration with both government and business sectors.
FPI will convene its highly anticipated Business Summit 2025 on October 8, 2025, at 8:00 AM, at the Manila Polo Club, Turf Room, located at 35 McKinley Road, Makati City. This year’s theme, “Thriving Through Turbulence: Advancing Philippine Manufacturing Resilience and Growth,” reflects the sector’s drive to overcome global economic headwinds and turn disruption into opportunity.
Secretary Cristina Aldeguer Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry and Secretary Ralph G. Recto of the Department of Finance have been invited to deliver keynote addresses. The summit will highlight landmark reforms such as the Tatak Pinoy Law and CREATE MORE, along with efforts to strengthen industrial capacity, enforce fair trade rules, and accelerate green and digital transformation in manufacturing.
Lee said this year’s Summit will not only celebrate that legacy but push forward a bold agenda for reindustrialization—one that is fair, green, and future-ready.
