Laguesma: DOLE Addresses US Tariff Impact
philippines Prepares for US Tariff Impact: DOLE Formulates adjustment Measures
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MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is actively developing a complete set of adjustment measures in anticipation of the potential economic repercussions stemming from the United States’ imposition of a 19 percent tariff on Philippine-made products.This proactive stance underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s workforce and businesses from adverse trade developments.
DOLE Secretary Outlines Proactive Strategy
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma confirmed the department’s preparations during discussions following the 2025 Post-State of the nation Address (SONA) in San Juan City on Wednesday.He emphasized that the DOLE is not merely reacting but is strategically formulating measures to mitigate the anticipated effects of the new US tariff policy.
“We are formulating measures because we are also anticipating it (possible impact),” Secretary Laguesma stated.”As we implement our programs, we also continue to observe any movement.”
Impact on Workers and Investors
Secretary laguesma highlighted that the implications of the tariff would extend beyond the labor sector, substantially affecting investors as well. “During the discussions today related to trade and industry, there is always an impact on our workers and investors,” he explained. ”It is not onyl workers who will be affected, but also investors. So, we will always monitor, I mentioned earlier the labor and employment plan. We always have projections on how many will be created and how many will be lost.”
The manufacturing sector is expected to bear the brunt of the tariff’s implementation. “We are waiting for the impact as the issue related to tariffs will, of course, have an impact on our manufacturers,” Laguesma noted.
Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) to Support Affected Businesses
The DOLE’s Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) is being leveraged to provide guidance and support to those most vulnerable to the tariff’s effects, notably small businesses. “That is why we also have the Adjustment measures Program (AMP), so we can see how it can be guided, especially those that will be affected, which are small businesses,” the Labor Secretary elaborated.
He acknowledged the unavoidable consequences of the tariff, stating, “We cannot say that it has no impact. It has an impact on the costs of shipment of our products, and of course, other countries, with lower tariffs, will be very competitive, particularly those that have access to the supply chain of materials.”
The declaration of the 19 percent tariff rate by US President Donald Trump, a slight reduction from an earlier 20 percent proposal, signals a critical juncture for Philippine trade relations and necessitates robust governmental response to ensure economic stability and protect the livelihoods of Filipino workers.