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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos touts Philippines as Southeast Asia's next digital investment hub

Marcos touts Philippines as Southeast Asia's next digital investment hub

Published Jul 17, 2026 07:48 am

At A Glance

  • President Marcos promoted the Philippines as a prime destination for technology-driven investments during his working visit to Singapore.
  • He highlighted reforms such as the Luzon Economic Corridor, the PPP Code, and Green Lanes for Strategic Investments to attract investors.
  • Marcos described the trip as his "most productive working visit," citing stronger bilateral ties and renewed investor interest in key sectors.
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (PCO)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (PCO)

President Marcos has pitched the Philippines as a leading destination for digital and technology investments in Southeast Asia as he capped what he described as his "most productive working visit" to Singapore.

"We have showcased the Philippines as a nation ready to lead, ready to innovate, and ready to partner in shaping the future of our region," Marcos said in his post-visit statement on Thursday, July 16.

Speaking before business leaders at the Milken Institute Roundtable Discussion, the President said he highlighted the country's reform agenda, including the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code, and Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, which are intended to make the Philippines more attractive to foreign investors.

He also underscored the country's recent attainment of upper-middle-income country status, saying it reflects "the resilience of our economy, the strength of our reforms, and the confidence of the international community in our future."

Business commitments

According to Marcos, his meetings with Singaporean companies produced renewed commitments to expand investments in telecommunications, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and healthcare.

Singtel reaffirmed plans to expand NCS Philippines and continue developing ST Telemedia Global Data Centres' facilities, while ABC Impact committed to supporting AC Health's nationwide expansion.

"We are not merely inviting investors to come to the Philippines—we are building an environment where innovation can flourish, businesses can thrive, and partnerships can create lasting value," Marcos said.

Stronger bilateral ties

President Marcos also met with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, during which the two leaders reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Philippines and Singapore and discussed cooperation in trade and investment, artificial intelligence, education, healthcare, environmental protection, and people-to-people exchanges.

The President said both countries also committed to maintaining ASEAN centrality as Singapore prepares to chair the regional bloc next year before the Philippines assumes the chairmanship in 2027.

Calling the three-day trip his "most productive working visit," Marcos said the engagements demonstrated the Philippines' readiness "to serve as a reliable partner in driving growth and innovation across the region" while reinforcing investor confidence in the country's long-term economic prospects.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos PH-Singapore invest in PH ASEAN
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