During
the week of April 12-16, 2026, USDA Deputy Secretary for Trade and Foreign
Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering led an Agribusiness Trade Mission to
the Philippines to promote U.S. agricultural exports, strengthen trade ties,
address trade barriers, and expand opportunities for U.S. producers within the
Philippine market. DATCP staff participated on the mission which coincided with
the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic relations in
2026, commemorating eight decades of partnership since July 4, 1946. Key
activities included launching the American Food Fest Retail Promotion at the
Marketplace Parqal Mall, over 600 B2B meetings, U.S.-Philippines wheat
partnership signing ceremony, retail tours, site visits including a gas station
ribbon cutting featuring U.S. Ethanol and networking receptions with
stakeholders, key governmental officials, and importers.