The Philippine ambassador to Washington has cautioned that new U.S. tariffs could jeopardize Manila’s ability to purchase American weapons systems, including a $5.58 billion deal for F-16 fighter jets. The concern follows President Trump’s implementation of nearly 20 percent tariffs on Philippine exports. Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez emphasized that the economic strain from tariffs could impact defense acquisitions from the U.S. The F-16 purchase, long in discussion, is seen as a key element of the Philippines’ military modernization. The warning highlights tensions between trade policy and defense cooperation among allies.
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