Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a part of BlackRock and one of the world’s leading infrastructure investors, is looking at acquiring 40 percent stake of Filipino firm Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC), for a strategic partnership in the infrastructure sector.
Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. (AEV), the parent company of AIC, announced in a statement they are finalizing discussion for a strategic infrastructure project.
There was no specific amount mentioned in the planned acquisition and potential joint venture project, other than AEV stating their discussion is expected to be one of the most significant foreign equity investments in Philippine infrastructure in recent years.
“This collaboration underscores growing global investor confidence in the Philippine market and reinforces the country’s standing as a prime investment destination in Asia,” the statement added.
Aboitiz Group President and Chief Executive Officer Sabin M. Aboitiz and Bayo Ogunlesi, GIP Chairman and Chief Executive Officer held a meeting in the U.S. attended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the president’s recent visit to the U.S. in time for the reciprocal tariff negotiation.
“This collaboration marks a strong vote of confidence in the Philippines’ future. With global partners like GIP working alongside respected Filipino firms such as Aboitiz, we can build infrastructure that is more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking,” said President Marcos Jr.
AIC holds a diversified portfolio of infrastructure assets, including significant investments in the aviation sector such as AIC’s award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Laguindingan International Airport, and Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Beyond airports, AIC also has investments in bulk-water supply, economic estates, and telecommunication towers, playing a vital role in supporting the nation’s development.
“We are honored to explore this opportunity with Global Infrastructure Partners. Our shared vision of modern, world-class infrastructure aligns with the country’s ambitions for progress,” said Aboitiz. “Together, we aim to deliver projects that improve lives and empower communities.”
GIP specializes in investing in, owning and operating some of the largest and most complex assets across the energy, transport, digital infrastructure and water and waste management sectors. GIP’s scaled platform has over $183 billion in assets under management. Their focus on real infrastructure assets, combined with GIP’s deep proprietary origination network and comprehensive operational expertise, enables them to be responsible stewards of their clients’ capital and to create positive economic impact for communities.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to become a strategic partner of the Aboitiz Group,” said GIP CEO Bayo Ogunlesi. “The Philippines has compelling growth prospects, which can be further enhanced by developing world-class infrastructure. We look forward to working with our partners at Aboitiz Group to leverage our combined capabilities to deliver best-in-class infrastructure services to the people of the Philippines.”
The parties believe this potential partnership will leverage their combined expertise and resources to develop and improve essential infrastructure, ultimately benefiting the Filipino people.
The finalization of the partnership is subject to entering into definitive documentation and the satisfaction of customary conditions including confirmatory due diligence and relevant approvals.
