Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque has urged American companies to invest in the Philippines whose economy is sustainable and forward looking.
“This is the kind of partnership we seek—one that goes beyond short-term gains and builds lasting prosperity for all where no one will be left behind. Today, I invite you—our partners from AmCham, international investors, and the business
community—to be part of this journey,” said Roque before the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) of the Philippines on March 19, 2025.
“The Philippines and the United States (US) deep economic and business ties underpin this present commitment. American businesses have long found a home here, benefiting from our strategic location, rich natural resources, skilled English-
speaking workforce, large consumer market, and supportive business environment,” said the trade chief.
To leverage these inherent advantages, Roque said that DTI actively implements strategic priorities, including international trade and investment promotion, consumer protection measures, and programs for developing local industries.
A significant driver of this strategy is the DTI’s Board of Investments, which has intensified its industry promotion efforts under the “Make It Happen in the Philippines,” campaign. This initiative involves direct engagement with crucial companies across targeted industries and supply chains.
Furthermore, the Green Lanes for Strategic Investments has certified 187 projects valued at PHP4.64 trillion.
These projects span crucial sectors such as renewable
energy, digital infrastructure, food security, and manufacturing.
Highlighting a landmark investment, Roque cited Masdar’s USD 15 billion investment in the renewable energy sector, encompassing solar, wind, and hydro projects. This investment supports the Philippines’ national target of 35 percent renewable energy share in power generation by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Beyond national targets, the DTI champions balanced regional development by expanding industrial growth beyond Metro Manila. Strategic investment corridors in Subic-Clark, Batangas, Mindanao, and the Visayas are being developed to
distribute economic benefits more equitably.
These initiatives align with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” framework of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which prioritizes sustainable development, fostering innovation, responsible business practices, and environmental consciousness. The Philippine government has also accelerated reforms to streamline processes.
The Ease of Doing Business Act, she said, has driven digital transformation through integrated online business registration and expanded digital payment solutions,
simplifying the investment process.
She also cited the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act (CREATE MORE), which offers attractive incentives, including tax breaks and VAT zero-rating, for
businesses prioritizing green technology, ESG compliance, and long-term sustainability.
Also boosting the country’s attractiveness is its dedication to
key international trade agreements, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Free Trade Area, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and the upcoming
Philippines-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
“These agreements strategically position the Philippines as a vital gateway to Southeast Asia, fostering expanded partnerships with the US, European Union, Japan, and other key markets,” she concluded.
