As in all his overseas ventures, President Marcos once again invited investors to explore the opportunities in the Philippines, which span multiple industries.

In his remarks during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Business and Investment Summit (ABIS) 2024, Marcos said the Philippines is an ideal hub for smart and sustainable manufacturing.

He emphasized the Philippines is pursuing 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," the President said on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

"We are targeting industries like green metals, battery manufacturing, energy equipment, data centers, and agribusiness," he added.

According to the President, the Philippine manufacturing sector continues to flourish despite global challenges, citing indicators such as the sustained Purchasing Managers’ Index growth proving that with a strong foundation, industries can flourish even in uncertain times.

He likewise 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,” Marcos said.

Efforts

To support these goals, President Marcos said the government enacted key reforms such as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code and the Internet Transactions Act.

He added that the government was also pursuing the enactment of other key legislations like the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act, which is anchored on the CREATE Act of 2021 to further strengthen fiscal and non-fiscal incentives in strategic industries.

President Marcos arrived in Laos Tuesday to participate in the 44th and 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits.

The President addressed the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, a major regional annual gathering that brings together world leaders, ASEAN representatives, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the pressing issues in the region.

It also explores ways to ensure equal and sustainable distribution of the benefits of ASEAN’s thriving economy.