President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday highlighted the Philippines’ growing position as a strategic investment destination in Asia, saying the billions of pesos worth of investment commitments secured during his State Visit to Japan will accelerate the country’s transformation into a regional hub for high-tech industries, advanced manufacturing, and shipbuilding.
Speaking during a media briefing in Tokyo, President Marcos underscored the Philippines’ geographic advantage and its potential to serve as a gateway for businesses seeking access to major Asian markets.
“We have aspirations to become a hub in Asia,” President Marcos said. “As I keep reminding our potential investors, the Philippines is only four hours away from every major capital in Asia, placing us strategically at the center of the region.”
The President noted that many of the agreements forged with Japanese companies are focused on key growth sectors, including semiconductors, automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, and other high-value industries that will generate employment opportunities and strengthen the country’s industrial base.
He added that discussions with Japanese investors also covered emerging industries such as battery production, artificial intelligence, and power generation—critical sectors that will support the continued expansion of the Philippines’ digital economy and growing data center industry.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of investments in the shipbuilding sector, particularly those involving Japanese shipbuilder Tsuneishi, which are expected to significantly enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
“Tsuneishi’s continued investments will sustain and expand vessel production in the Philippines, helping restore our position among the world’s leading shipbuilding nations,” the President said.
The Chief Executive recalled that the Philippines was once ranked among the top shipbuilding countries globally and expressed confidence that the new investments could propel the country back into the top tier of the industry.
Beyond industrial development, President Marcos said the partnerships with Japanese firms will contribute to the country’s long-term economic growth through skills development, technology transfer, infrastructure enhancement, and stronger industrial support systems.
The President also cited ongoing discussions between the Philippines and Japan on cooperation in agriculture, smart cities, and other emerging sectors that can further boost innovation and sustainable development.
“Japan is a world leader when it comes to these technologies and strategies, and we have much to learn from their experience and expertise,” President Marcos said.
