Imee urges gov't to prepare for possible shifts in US policies

MANILA – Senator Imee Marcos on Monday urged the Philippine government to prepare for significant changes in US policies under the Trump administration, particularly those that could impact immigration, defense, and geopolitical interests.

In a statement, Marcos emphasized the need to protect around 200,000 undocumented Filipinos in the US facing potential mass deportations by expanding reintegration programs, including skills training, livelihood support, and direct assistance for deportees.

"We need a plan for these families who may be forced to come home," Marcos said citing the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Foreign Affairs as key agencies concerned.

She also stressed the importance of fast-tracking the country's self-defense capabilities through local manufacturing of defense equipment and technology transfers through the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP).

"In the end, no matter how many and how strong our allies are, we can only depend on ourselves, the Filipinos, to defend the Philippines," Marcos said calling for immediate allocations for SRDP.

The senator, who chairs the Committee on Foreign Relations, likewise encouraged the national government to take a leadership role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and foster strengthened partnerships within the region to manage shifts in US foreign policy and safeguard national interests.

Given the Philippines' close ties with the US, Marcos noted that the Philippines is uniquely positioned to lead these discussions and to facilitate the formation of a new ASEAN consensus on US-China relations.

"The Philippines must act now to secure our people, strengthen our defenses, and ensure we're prepared for any shifts in global dynamics. The world is changing fast, and we can't afford to be caught unprepared," Marcos said.

Senate President Francis Escudero also called on the government to "proactively prepare" for potential US policy shifts.

"Donald Trump is a major macroeconomic assumption. From trade to security, to immigration, what he said he plans to do, some on day one of his administration, would certainly impact us," he said in a separate statement.

Besides Trump's proposed mass deportations, Escudero said a stronger US dollar could weaken the Philippine peso and increase foreign debt burdens, while shifts in trade tariffs could affect Philippine exports.

"On the security front, will a second Trump administration be hawkish or dovish against China? Dapat handa tayo kung sakaling may bagong posisyon ang Washington (We should be prepared in case Washington will have a new position)," Escudero said.

Like Senator Marcos, Escudero said the government should anticipate these scenarios to avoid being caught off guard. (PNA)