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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider Qatar firm targets 'trophy projects' in Philippines infrastructure push

Qatar firm targets 'trophy projects' in Philippines infrastructure push

Published Feb 24, 2026 06:59 pm
Qatar-based global investment firm JTA International Investment Holding is planning to invest more than $3 billion in so-called “trophy projects” in the Philippines, with the first series of developments expected to begin as early as the fourth quarter.
JTA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amir Ali Salemi said the company is assessing at least four “unique” projects across the archipelago as part of its efforts to pursue strategic investments in the Philippines.
“JTA wants to invest in unique projects, or trophy projects. The tallest, the first, and the biggest,” Salemi said in a press briefing on Tuesday, Feb. 24.
One of the projects is a proposed technology hub in Pampanga, which will be developed in partnership with telco provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc.
He said the project, envisioned as the first of its kind in Asia, is planned to cost around $2 billion.
JTA is also planning to invest in a tertiary hospital with a comprehensive diagnostic center that will rise in Metro Manila.
In addition, the company will fund the construction of two five-star hotels on the island of Mactan in Cebu.
The development of these projects is expected to commence in the fourth quarter, subject to regulatory approvals and final project evaluations.
Although not yet part of its pipeline, JTA is also exploring investing in the Port of Davao and entering into a public-private partnership (PPP) to operate General Santos International Airport.
Likewise, the firm is looking at potential solar power projects under the Department of Energy (DOE).
"These planned investments reflect our long-term commitment to contributing to the Philippines' economic development while delivering sustainable value for our stakeholders,” said Salemi.
Despite weaker investment sentiment in the country last year, Salemi said JTA remains upbeat about the Philippines’ economic fundamentals and long-term growth prospects.
He said the company views the country as an attractive investment hub, largely due to its young, skilled workforce, improving infrastructure, and pro-business economic reforms.
“We don't have any problem in investing here, because I know the Philippines is growing. And we have many good opportunities here,” he added.
JTA is a diversified global investment firm focused on long-term, value-driven opportunities across emerging and developed markets.
At present, the company has investments in more than 50 countries worldwide.
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