President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. returned to Manila on Sunday following a working visit to Singapore, bringing home billions in investment commitments across logistics, renewable energy and infrastructure alongside bilateral talks on regional security and ASEAN leadership.
Speaking during his arrival statement, the President highlighted key outcomes from his participation in the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference, where he presented the country’s economic priorities, digital reforms and strategic infrastructure projects such as the $20-billion Luzon Economic Corridor, before roughly 470 international business executives and policymakers.
Among the major investment milestones secured during the trip is the expansion of FedEx’s Clark Gateway Hub in Pampanga, scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2028. The expanded hub is set to boost international air freight capacity and help local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) integrate into global supply chains.
The Chief Executive also cited Mitsubishi Corporation’s $700-million investment in Ayala Corporation, marking one of the largest foreign equity infusions in the country in recent years and Vena Energy’s plan to construct an additional 1.29 gigawatts of renewable capacity backed by a P52-billion equity injection over two years.
“These developments directly align with our goal of achieving a 35 percent renewable energy share in power generation by 2030 and 50 percent by the year 2040,” President Marcos stated, emphasizing that attracting capital must be paired with preparing energy grids, technology and workforce capabilities.
On the diplomatic front, President Marcos held bilateral talks with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to align regional priorities ahead of the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila this November, where the Philippines will formally hand over the ASEAN Chairmanship to Singapore.
During his address, the President reiterated the administration’s commitment to anti-corruption measures, digital modernization, and the firm defense of national sovereignty and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.
Addressing long-term power security, Marcos also pointed to his tour of the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute, reaffirming that the administration continues to evaluate all viable energy options, including nuclear technology and safety frameworks, to sustain future industrial growth.