特朗普正式致函菲律宾，宣布加重税，菲律宾终于意识到不对劲，替美国卖命不会有好下场

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. has imposed a 20% tariff on goods imported from the Philippines, exacerbating the economic and strategic challenges faced by the Southeast Asian nation, which had previously relied on U.S. support for trade and security [1][3]. Economic Impact - The 20% tariff will significantly increase export costs for the Philippines' key industries, including electronics, textiles, and agriculture, which already have profit margins below 5% [3]. - In August, the Philippines' electronic exports reached $3.57 billion, accounting for 52.9% of total exports, but the high tariffs may weaken its competitiveness in the global supply chain [3]. - Agricultural exports have also suffered, with a 14.3% year-on-year decline in 2023, particularly affecting major products like coconuts and mangoes [3]. - The peso has been depreciating, leading to rising import costs and increased domestic inflation, with rice prices rising 19.6% year-on-year by December 2023 [3]. Government Response - President Marcos plans to negotiate with the U.S. to reduce the tariff rate to 10% and secure exemptions for critical exports like semiconductors [3]. - The negotiations may require the Philippines to open its markets further to U.S. products, including pork and poultry, which could lead to more market share being ceded to U.S. capital [3]. Public Sentiment - Public opinion in the Philippines is shifting, with 72% of citizens identifying inflation as the most pressing issue and 73% dissatisfied with the government's handling of it [5]. - There is growing discontent regarding the U.S. tariff policy, with sentiments emerging on social media that criticize the Philippines' alignment with U.S. interests [5]. Geopolitical Context - The U.S. tariff measures are part of a broader pattern affecting multiple countries, indicating a potentially arbitrary and destructive trade policy under the "America First" agenda [5]. - The unpredictability of U.S. trade policies is undermining its credibility as a partner, creating opportunities for deeper cooperation between China and ASEAN nations [5][7]. - The Philippines risks becoming a geopolitical pawn if it continues to align closely with the U.S. in the context of regional power dynamics [7].