MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. told Southeast Asian investors that the Philippines is an ideal hub for smart and sustainable manufacturing.
In a speech at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Vientiane, Laos, the Chief Executive said investors must explore business opportunities in the Philippines that span across multiple industries.
President Marcos also mentioned about the country’s key policy reforms and its aggressive development in infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture and digital connectivity.
“So, let me put on my salesman’s hat and invite you to explore the investment opportunities we offer. We are targeting industries like green metals, battery manufacturing, energy equipment, data centers, and agribusiness,” Marcos said.
The President added that his administration enacted key reforms such as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code, the Internet Transactions Act, and Executive Order 18, series of 2023, to support these goals.
“The Philippine manufacturing sector continues to flourish despite global challenges,” said Marcos, who added indicators such as the sustained Purchasing Managers’ Index growth proving that, with a strong foundation, industries can flourish even in uncertain times.
The President also mentioned the chemicals industry as one of the largest sub-sectors in the manufacturing industry, a major pillar supporting various sectors like agriculture, automotive, cement, creative, construction, energy, health, and pharmaceutical.
“We look at this as a major contributor to economic growth and job generation in the foreseeable future,” the Chief Executive said.
The ASEAN Business and Investment Summit is an annual major regional gathering that brings together world leaders, ASEAN representatives, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the pressing issues in the region./PN
