Business leaders from the Philippines and Cambodia must build on the momentum of the two countries' growing economic relations by expanding their partnership in key sectors, President Marcos said.

In his keynote address at the CEO B2B Networking Roundtable during his three-day state visit to Phnom Penh, Marcos stressed that high-impact sectors will define the next phase of the two countries' development.

"With continued collaboration, I am confident that our economic ties will expand further. The future of our relationship lies not only in traditional industries, but also in emerging, high-impact sectors that will define the next phase of our development," Marcos said.

Marcos also expressed optimism for the future, calling on business leaders to continue strengthening partnerships and contributing to the ongoing success of bilateral trade.

“We cannot and should not rest on this momentum. There remains significant room to grow, untapped potential to explore, and opportunities that we must seize together. With continued collaboration, I am confident that our economic ties will expand further,” he stressed.

The President further told them that the Philippines is focused on expanding cooperation in sectors such as consumer goods, education, healthcare, franchising, infrastructure, agro-processing, and logistics.

“These industries are critical drivers of both economic modernization and social development," he stressed. "They are fully aligned with our national development goals, and they also reflect global trends in innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation."

Marcos also reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that supports private sector growth in both countries.

He underscored that the partnership between the private sector and the government is vital in achieving sustainable development and inclusive growth.

“In the Philippines, we view the business sector as an essential partner in national development,” the President said.

“While the government is focused on creating the enabling environment through stable policy, sound regulations, and strategic infrastructure, it is the private sector that moves capital, creates jobs, introduces technology, and delivers meaningful and lasting impact on the ground,” he added.

The CEO B2B Networking Roundtable was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry, the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Business Association.