Manila, October 12 (AseanAll) — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted new investment opportunities, stronger economic partnerships and energy security during his October 7 to 11 working visit to Singapore, which included his participation in the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference and meetings with government and business leaders.
In his post-visit message, Marcos said his discussions with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong focused on sustaining momentum in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agenda as the Philippines prepares to hand over the ASEAN chairship to Singapore next month.
“I am pleased with my discussions with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, particularly on our shared interest in ensuring continuity and sustaining momentum in ASEAN priorities,” Marcos said.
“As our term as ASEAN Chair draws to a close and we prepare to hand over to Singapore next month, these back-to-back engagements could not be more timely,”Marcos noted.
The President and his delegation arrived in Manila at 1:54 a.m. following his five-day working visit to Singapore.
At the Forbes conference, the President presented the Philippines’ economic priorities and growth plans to about 470 business leaders, chief executive officers, and policymakers.
These include expanding exports, improving the business environment through tax incentives and digital reforms, and advancing major infrastructure projects such as the $20-billion Luzon Economic Corridor.
The President also underscored the country’s push to strengthen research and development, expand regional digital cooperation, combat corruption, and build stronger international economic partnerships.
“I spoke of our drive to move up the technology ladder into research and development and to lead in regional digital cooperation, supported by a young, highly skilled, English-speaking and tech-savvy workforce,” the President said.
“I also emphasized our national resolve to fight corruption, strengthen digital safeguards, build strong international economic ties, firmly protect our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, and contribute to regional peace and stability,” President Marcos added.
During his meetings with business executives, the President discussed investment and expansion plans involving FedEx, Mitsubishi Corporation and Vena Energy.
FedEx is preparing to expand its Clark Gateway Hub in Pampanga, which is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2028.
The expanded facility is expected to increase international air freight and specialized cargo capacity, helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) access global markets.
Marcos said the developments support the country’s target of increasing renewable energy’s share in power generation to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Beyond investments, the President also emphasized the importance of preparing the country’s energy supply, infrastructure, technology, and workforce to support future industries.
“I am confident that the interest shown by investors in these engagements will bring more high-value investments, partnerships, technology and jobs to the Philippines, particularly in sectors that will support our long-term growth and transformation,” the President said.
As part of this effort, President Marcos also visited the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute to learn about Singapore’s work in nuclear research and technology, particularly in safety.
The President said the visit strengthened the Philippines’ partnership with Singapore and opened more opportunities for investment and cooperation.
“To power our growth, we will keep studying all viable options for our long-term energy security and build the technical capability to make informed decisions for our future,” President Marcos concluded.
