Manila, March 14 -- The Philippines will monitor and cooperate in the United States' investigation into Manila's alleged failure to ban the import of goods produced through forced labor, Malacanang said on Saturday.

This came after the US Trade Representative (USTR) launched a probe under Section 301 (b) of the US Trade Act of 1974 to determine whether the Philippines and 50 other trading partners have effectively banned the import of goods produced using forced labor.

Citing Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque's statement, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippines takes note of the US's ongoing investigation.

"We will closely monitor and actively participate in the investigation to address the concerns of the United State...