MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to visit Washington D.C. from July 20 to 22 for a bilateral meeting with United States President Donald Trump, as Manila faces mounting concerns over proposed US trade tariffs and defense cooperation in the region.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Maria Alnee Gamble Solano confirmed the official visit on Friday, noting that Marcos will be the first ASEAN head of government to be received by Trump in his second term.

The meeting is expected to cover key areas of cooperation, including trade, defense and security, and regional and international developments.

While specific details remain under wraps, Solano said Philippine officials are in Washington for discussions on a “reciprocal trade deal,” in light of a proposed 20 percent tariff on Philippine goods—an increase from an earlier 17 percent.

“We hope… to arrive at a bilateral trade agreement or a deal on reciprocal trade that is mutually acceptable, mutually beneficial for both our countries,” Solano said.

Talks are also underway for possible assistance to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard.

During the visit, Marcos is expected to meet with several U.S. officials, including State Secretary Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, as well as representatives of U.S. companies with investment interests in the Philippines.

Solano added that the visit will include an invitation for President Trump to attend the East Asia Summit in Manila in 2026. No meeting with the Filipino community in Washington is scheduled due to time constraints.