Asia Pacific Pathways to Progress

A foreign aid freeze, uncertain security guarantees, and fears of being marginalised in great power deals have stirred unease in the Philippines as US President Donald Trump’s policy takes form. The opening salvo of the second Trump term has sent jitters through Manila, which stands on the front line of regional flashpoints and evolving supply chains. The plight of undocumented immigrants, continuity for pledged projects, and a clear economic game plan to compete with China will be key issues on Manila’s radar. Shipbuilding, semiconductors, critical minerals, LNG, and defense industry collaboration are areas the two allies can work together. Pathways Fellow Lucio Pitlo III shares his view in this SCMP piece.