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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos back from 'fruitful' APEC participation in South Korea

Marcos back from 'fruitful' APEC participation in South Korea

Published Nov 2, 2025 03:14 pm
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivers a special speech at the APEC CEO Summit 2025. (Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivers a special speech at the APEC CEO Summit 2025. (Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Marcos has returned to Manila after his "fruitful participation" in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea.
"I am pleased to report that our engagements were robust, our discussions fruitful, and our shared commitment to collective action reaffirmed," Marcos said in his arrival message on Sunday, Nov. 2.
Marcos reported that he was able to join his fellow economic leaders in a series of productive meetings on the most pressing challenges confronting the Asia-Pacific region, from supply chain disruptions and climate change to persistent economic inequality and the accelerating pace of technological transformation.
"We saw alignment in the urgency for resilient growth, inclusive prosperity, and sustainable development. More importantly, we debated, we listened, and we laid down meaningful and action-oriented pathways for regional economic cooperation," the President said.
He noted that topics raised during the APEC meeting such rapid deployment of AI, far-reaching demographic changes, and the flourishing of cultural and creative industries are "timely and deeply relevant to the Philippines."
The President said he was able to advance several Philippine priorities, including the importance of narrowing the digital divide for MSMEs by equitable access to digital services and financial inclusion; advancing seamless movements of goods and people to infrastructure development; promoting supply chain resiliency amid shocks and crises; and promoting digital literacy and upskilling for MSMEs, women, and other segments whose full economic potential can be realized through digitalization.
"These priorities were well-received, and we worked with our partners to identify concrete ways forward, as reflected in the outcome documents adopted and concluded during the visit," Marcos shared.
"Now as we return home, let us all carry forward the momentum that we have built, translating our commitments and agreements into tangible results, forging lasting partnerships and ensuring that the Asia-Pacific region continues to thrive, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable," Marcos added.

Growing confidence of Korean investors

Marcos also reported that he was able to have "strategically-focused" discussions with Korean conglomerates for potential high-value partnerships in various sectors.
"I also met with top executives from Korean conglomerates, a move that reflects the growing confidence of Korean investors in the Philippines' economic potential and policy environment," the Chief Executive said.
"The discussions were strategically focused on exploring partnerships in high-value sectors such as advanced manufacturing in electronics and semiconductors, clean energy, and defense-related industries," he added.
On the sidelines of the APEC Summit, Marcos held bilateral meetings with Republic of Korea President Lee Jae-myung and Chilean President Gabriel Boric.
In those meetings, Marcos said they reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The President also witnessed the signing of a supplemental agreement between the Department of Trade's Philippine Economic Zone Authority and Samsung Electromechanics Philippines, valued at over P50 billion. It  is expected to generate more than 3,000 new high-technology jobs for Filipino engineers and technicians.
They also committed to the training of Filipinos and the establishment of R&D centers with some Philippine universities.
"This commitment is vital as Korean FDI inflows reached 55 million dollars in the first half of 2025, reflecting strong investor confidence that this administration is seeking to translate into concrete long-term commitments," Marcos said.

Pinoys in South Korea urged to stay united

In meeting the Filipino community in South Korea, Marcos said he encouraged them stay united and to collaborate in building a stronger, more resilient Philippines.
He thanked them for their meaningful contributions, both to their communities in the Philippines and in the Republic of Korea, recognizing that their dedication and success bring pride to every Filipino and strengthen the enduring friendship between the two nations.

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