President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. capped a three-day, highly productive participation at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju and Busan, South Korea, by emphasizing the Philippines’ economic resilience, securing opportunities for strategic investments, and reaffirming crucial regional partnerships.
The working visit culminated in a series of business meetings aimed at translating high-level discussions into tangible economic gains, underscoring the President’s commitment to generating more quality job opportunities for Filipinos through foreign investment.
During the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) at the Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO), President Marcos engaged with fellow economic leaders across two key sessions: “Towards a More Connected, Resilient Region and Beyond” and “Preparing a Future-Ready Asia-Pacific.” The President highlighted the Philippines’ sustained efforts to enhance digital connectivity and supply chain resilience, positioning the nation as a vital hub in the Asia-Pacific trade landscape.
The President also delivered special remarks at the APEC CEO Summit, where he addressed top regional business executives, outlining structural reforms and investment opportunities in key Philippine sectors such as infrastructure, digital transformation, and green energy. This was followed by a focused meeting with the US APEC Business Council, further signaling the Philippines’ openness to foreign capital.
A highlight of the working visit was the bilateral meeting with the Republic of Korea, where President Marcos reaffirmed the strong and growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on mutual security and economic cooperation.
Following the formal conclusion of the APEC meetings, the President proceeded to Busan for a critical series of meetings at the Signiel Hotel. These engagements were designed to follow up on previous investment commitments and attract new strategic capital, demonstrating the administration’s resolve to actively seek partners who can contribute to long-term national development.
Upon arrival, the President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos were warmly welcomed by members of the Filipino Community in South Korea at the Wyndham Grand Busan. The gathering was a testament to the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries and provided the President an opportunity to thank overseas Filipinos for their continued contributions to the national economy.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said: “Our participation in APEC 2025 was not merely attendance; it was a clear articulation of the Philippines’ readiness to lead in building a more interconnected and resilient Asia-Pacific. We went to South Korea to secure partnerships that will directly benefit our people, and we are returning with a concrete roadmap for increased strategic investments and stronger regional cooperation.”
