Manila, Aug. 6 -- Malacanang on Thursday expressed optimism that the United States would reduce the 12.5 percent tariff imposed on Philippine exports, saying the government has demonstrated its commitment to combating forced labor through existing laws and a newly issued joint administrative order.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government continues to coordinate with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) after submitting a joint administrative order (JAO) issued by the departments of trade and industry, labor, and finance.

"Lahat po ng kailangang ibigay na impormasyon na hindi po tayo lumalabag sa batas at hindi po tayo pumapayag sa forced labor (We have provided all the necessary information showing...