By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the major economic reforms and digital transformation efforts the administration had been implementing in the Philippines as he encouraged investors to expand their businesses in the country.
During his address at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in South Korea on Friday, the President noted the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and the Philippine government’s commitment to innovation-driven and inclusive growth.
“Our message is clear: The Philippines is open, ready, and eager to do business with all of you,” Marcos said.
“We welcome our partners from across the region and we invite the business community to join us in shaping a connected, resilient, and opportunity-driven Asia-Pacific.”
He shared various investments in digital infrastructure in the country that are focused on bridging connectivity, advancing artificial intelligence, and empowering entrepreneurs in the digital economy.
Marcos added that the government has also strengthened data governance and cyber resilience to build trust in the country’s growing digital systems.
He likewise emphasized the private sector’s role in capital movement, job creation, technology introduction, and delivering meaningful social impact—citing landmark economic reforms such as the Public-Private Partnership Code, CREATE MORE Act, and green financing initiatives.
The President cited Republic Act (RA) 12252, which liberalizes land leases; RA 12289, which accelerates government land acquisition for infrastructure; and RA 12253, which sets a stable fiscal regime for large-scale mining.
“As a model of good governance, public-private sector cooperation helps align the government’s work in many sectors to deliver quick and concrete results,” the President told top business executives.
“We value your insights, and we welcome your ideas. We are fully prepared to work with you in transforming those ideas into tangible results.”
Before concluding his address, Marcos assured that under the Philippines’ chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, he will lead efforts to roll out the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement—which is expected to unlock $2 trillion in the regional digital market by 2030.
“As the Philippines takes on the ASEAN chairship in 2026, we stand ready to build a more connected, competitive, and sustainable regional economy,” he said.
“Our Chairship will advance stronger APEC–ASEAN alignment and promote coherent policies, resilient institutions, and broader opportunities for all.”
