Malacañang has assured the public that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will reject any international agreement that puts the Philippines or its citizens at a disadvantage.
During a recent press briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reiterated the administration’s stance on protecting national interests during foreign economic engagements.
“Nagsalita din po ang Pangulo, hindi maaaring gumawa ng anumang transaksyon na ang Pilipinas o mga Pilipino ang siyang madidehado,” Castro stated.
The statement follows news that the United States levied heavy tariffs on Canada after Ottawa refused a trade deal seeking exclusive access to its critical mineral reserves.
When questioned about the protective measures Manila is taking as the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative expands into the country, Castro emphasized that all government actions and investment partnerships will strictly adhere to national laws.
She affirmed that while attracting foreign capital remains a priority, the administration will not compromise the welfare of the public.
“Kailangan po natin na magkaroon ng mga investments pero hindi nangangahulugan na ang ating mga kapuwa Pilipino ang magdurusa,” Castro noted.
“So maliwanag po iyan, hindi po natin pababayaan kung ano ang itinatalaga ng ating batas, hindi po natin iba-violate ang karapatan ng ating mga kapwa nating Pilipino,” she added.