Manila, July 3 -- The Philippines and the United States are working double time to finalize a trade agreement, according to US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, as Manila negotiates the paused 17 percent reciprocal tariff imposed on the country by President Donald Trump.

"Both sides are working very hard to reach an agreement," Carlson said in an interview on the sidelines of the US Independence Day celebration in Taguig City on Thursday.

The envoy noted that trade is an "ever-evolving issue," but the US remains committed to supporting the economic development of the Philippines.

"I know trade is an ever-evolving issue, and we will continue to work together as friends, partners, and allies, particularly as partners in prosperity with regard ...