Commentary
Their Cars Are Free, Our Products Still Taxed
The Philippines has agreed to remove tariffs on American vehicle imports, a move that signals openness to broader trade, but one that’s also raising questions about fairness and balance.
Under the current deal, the US will lower tariffs on Philippine goods to 19%, just a notch below the 20% previously in place. In exchange, Manila committed to a zero-duty policy on incoming American cars. While this could pave the way for more affordable US vehicles for Filipino consumers, some observers are concerned that the concessions may outweigh the benefits.
Japanese negotiators, for instance, secured a more favorable auto deal — cutting US auto tariffs from 25% to 15%, with no restrictions on import volumes. Meanwhile, Philippine exporters, particularly those outside the electronics sector, will continue to face relatively high US duties.
Economist Michael Ricafort points out that the US remains the country’s top export market, accounting for 17% of total shipments. Although the impact on GDP may be minimal due to the Philippines’ modest export-to-GDP ratio, some local sectors could still feel the pinch.
What’s more, the agreement could have ripple effects on local auto assembly and manufacturing efforts, especially as the Philippines tries to grow its presence in electric vehicles and mobility tech. Giving full access to US carmakers, while admirable for consumer choice, could create tougher competition for local and regional players.
President Marcos has described the deal as a “living thing”, suggesting it may evolve as markets adjust. Still, clarity will be key. Many are waiting on final details, particularly whether electronics exports remain exempt and how other industries will be supported.
There’s also the broader question of whether we are negotiating trade from a position of strength, or a place of accommodation.
While the 19% US tariff is lower than what many ASEAN neighbors face, such as Vietnam at 20%, and Malaysia and South Korea at 25%, the Philippines’ zero-tariff concession stands out. The optics are delicate: we opened our doors wider than most, yet our own exports are still met with significant tariffs.
This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad deal. It could spark more US investment or deepen economic ties. But it’s fair, and necessary, to ask the question:
Are we protecting the industries that need it most, or giving away too much too soon?
The sound of playful barks and happy laughter filled Barkhaus Eastwood as Jetour Auto Philippines, Inc. (JAPI) hosted its second Annual Media Pet Day on August 20, ahead of International Dog Day. The gathering brought together media friends, their pets, and the Jetour family for an afternoon celebrating companionship and responsible pet ownership.
Far from the usual motoring affair, the event highlighted JAPI’s belief that family includes furry members as well. It also gave the company a chance to strengthen ties with the media in a relaxed and personal setting.
The celebration featured fun contests, interactive sessions, and plenty of activities for both humans and pets. With its pet-friendly setup, Barkhaus Eastwood proved to be an ideal venue for socializing, bonding, and sharing stories among fellow animal lovers.
For Jetour, the day reflected its wider mission: building connections and communities that go beyond cars. Marketing Director Cherry May Moreno-De Los Santos expressed joy at seeing both familiar and new faces return for what is becoming a beloved tradition. “Much like the lifelong relationship we have with our pets, we want Jetour’s bond with our customers to be one of trust, loyalty, and joy,” she said.
To extend the celebration to the public, Jetour also held a vehicle display at Eastwood Mall, showcasing its current lineup, including the sporty Dashing series, the family-sized 7-seater X70, and the rugged T2 4×4 SUV.
The event reinforced Jetour’s message: journeys are not just about destinations, but also about the bonds and memories made along the way. True to that spirit, all Jetour dealerships across the country remain pet-friendly, welcoming families to shop for their next car without leaving their furry companions behind.
Official Website of LTO National Capital Region
The Land Transportation Office – National Capital Region (LTO-NCR) reminds the public to visit and use only its official website:
👉 https://www.ltoncr.com
Here are the available online services:
🔹 Plate Inquiry
- Replacement Plate (Green to White Plate)
- New Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Plates (Released to Dealers)
- Backlog Motorcycle Plates
🔹 Driver’s License (DL) Card Inquiry – Backlog DL Cards
🔹 Announcements
🔹 Citizen’s Charter
🔹 Certificate of Registration (CR) Inquiry
🔹 Messenger Channel
✅ Always check the official website and channels for accurate updates and information.
Pasay City — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) expressed its full support for the use of digital tools in monitoring flood control projects with the launch of the Flood Control Project Components (FCPC) under the Digital Information for Monitoring and Evaluation (DIME) initiative on Thursday at the Tripa de Gallina Pumping Station.
MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes, in his welcome remarks, said the system will play a vital role in addressing flooding, one of the biggest problems in Metro Manila. He noted that DIME makes it easier to determine if a project is working, allowing government to act faster and provide better protection for communities.
“This will ensure safety and well-being while promoting transparency,” Artes said, adding that the step is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to digitize government processes and guarantee that public funds directly benefit the people.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) leads the program, which incorporates advanced technology such as satellite imaging, drones, and geotagging to track the progress of major government infrastructure projects.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman highlighted the importance of public involvement, encouraging citizens to share their input on projects under DIME.
The launch also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with various agencies: the Department of Transportation, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Education, Department of Public Works and Highways, National Mapping and Resource Information Authority, Philippine Space Agency, and the Government Data Initiative.
Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, UP-NOAH Center Director Mahar Lagmay, and representatives from civil society groups joined the event to show their support.
