President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reported that he had secured $1.3 billion in investment pledges that could create almost 7,000 new jobs for Filipinos in the Philippines as he concluded his four-day official visit to Washington, DC, on Friday morning, May 5 (Manila time).

President Marcos caps his four-day official visit to the US with a post-visit report on May 5 (Manila time), before he goes to London for the coronation of King Charles III. (RTVM screenshot)

In a post-visit report, the President said the investments, when realized, would support the Philippines' economic recovery efforts and further strengthen the foundations of the country's economic environment.

"We return to the Philippines with over $1.3 billion in investment pledges that have the potential to create around 6,700 new jobs for Filipinos within the country," Marcos said.

"We expect (that) even more investments will materialize once these companies firm up their plans," he added.

According to the Chief Executive, the US companies he met wanted to either further expand their already valuable presence and operations in the Philippines or invest in the country for the first time.

"They are all committed to be part of this development journey that we have embarked upon," he said.

"The interest is a welcome sign of their trust and confidence in the Philippines as an investment destination," he added.

Marcos: It is with great pride that I received their praises for the talent, ingenuity, and work ethic of Filipinos. This has become the main driving force for bringing their investments to the country. @manilabulletin

— Argyll Cyrus Geducos (@argyll_mb) May 4, 2023

President Marcos likewise said that the US business community had nothing but praise for Filipino workers.

"It is with great pride that I received their praises for the talent, ingenuity, and work ethic of Filipinos. This has become the main driving force for bringing their investments to the country," he said.

With the help of American businesses, the President said the country would address some of its economic challenges, particularly food, energy, and health security; digital connectivity; climate change; and the Covid-19 pandemic.

"These, complemented by our game-changing economic reforms, will serve as a firm foundation for an indomitable partnership," he said.

After his trip to the US, President Marcos would go straight to London for the coronation of King Charles III. He is slated to participate in the 42nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Indonesia next week.