Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala urged foreign investors, particularly those from the US, to invest in the Philippines, citing the country's strong economic growth potential despite global challenges.

In his keynote address as Co-Chair of the US-Philippines Society at a board meeting last week, Zobel emphasized the Philippines' immense investment potential due to its growth trajectory.

"The country is certainly ready to accept high levels of partnerships and investments from our friends around the region, most especially the United States," he said.

Zobel noted, "Consistent six percent growth is certainly a respectable achievement, but imagine what more can be achieved if we hit a continuous growth rate of eight percent or more over a sustained period, which economists feel is possible if we align the government and private sectors."

Despite global volatility, he emphasized that the Philippines remains one of Asia’s most promising economies, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and a young, fast-growing population.

"We in the Philippine business community remain hopeful at the country’s prospects for growth, which have not dimmed despite a volatile global environment," Zobel said.

With gross domestic product and per capita income having more than doubled over the last 15 years, the Philippine economy could reach $855 billion by 2035.

Recent economic reforms have also made the country more investment-friendly. These include liberalized foreign investment policies in retail, infrastructure, and strategic industries, as well as incentives for high-value sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

As one of the country’s largest conglomerates, Ayala Corporation's investments span sectors pivotal to economic expansion, including real estate, banking, telecommunications, energy, healthcare, and EV infrastructure.

Society Co-chairman Ambassador John D. Negroponte led the US delegation, which included former ambassadors Thomas C. Hubbard and Paul Jones.

The American side is committed to promoting win-win outcomes on trade and investment, sustaining shared security interests, and strengthening people-to-people ties through educational and cultural exchanges.

The Society recognizes the effective diplomatic leadership of Ambassadors Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez and MaryKay L. Carlson during this transitional period in Washington and foresees bilateral relations strengthening.

The Society welcomed new members from private sector and civic leaders in both countries, whose commitment and support will ensure the Society can carry out its mission of providing continuity in relations between the Philippines and the United States amid political transitions.