President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude to the Diplomatic Corps for its support of Philippine development initiatives, emphasizing the nation’s economic growth and independent foreign policy.

In his speech, the President reiterated that the Philippines is “open for business,” highlighting domestic priorities for socio-economic transformation aligned with the country’s foreign policy.

“Our independent foreign policy is informed by our development goals and reflects our national priorities,” Marcos said.

“Ours is a proactive policy that is true to ourselves, responsive to the needs and aspirations of our people. Our engagements with the world are geared towards building peace and cooperation and to foster enduring partnerships,” he added.

The President also said that the Philippines aims to “build bridges, not walls” and forge alliances based on mutual respect and shared goals.

He highlighted the Philippines’ 5.4 percent economic growth in the first quarter of 2025, driven by the agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry and services sectors as he also expressed confidence in achieving a 6 percent GDP growth target in the coming quarters, citing steady fiscal consolidation, easing inflation and progress in trade negotiations.

Marcos cited the International Monetary Fund’s backing of these figures, which positions the Philippines as one of the fastest-growing economies among ASEAN five countries this year.

He also detailed key measures like the CREATE MORE Act and the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act, designed to simplify business engagement for both Filipino and foreign investors. Marcos announced a 1.3 percent inflation rate for 2025, signaling a stable economic environment ahead.

The President sought the Diplomatic Corps’ support for the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit.