President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed for Gyeongju, Republic of Korea (South Korea) on Thursday afternoon to attend the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), where he is expected to push for greater regional cooperation, digital transformation, and investment-driven growth.

In his departure statement, Marcos emphasized the crucial role of the APEC region, which accounts for 46% of global trade and 61% of the world’s total GDP, in driving the Philippines’ economic growth and stability.

“The growth and stability of this region are directly tied to the opportunities and welfare of all Filipinos,” Marcos said. “Given these high stakes, this gathering is imperative.”

The President will join other world leaders upon the invitation of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung under the summit’s theme, “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect. Innovate. Prosper.” 

Marcos said the theme aligns closely with his administration’s national development agenda, particularly in digital transformation, connectivity, and inclusive growth.

He then outlined key priorities for the Philippines’ participation in the summit, including ensuring equitable access to digital and financial services, especially in rural areas, enhancing supply chain resilience, promoting seamless trade and investment, and strengthening digital literacy among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women, and youth.

The President is also set to deliver a Special Speech at the APEC CEO Summit, where he plans to highlight the Philippines’ commitment to fostering an innovation-driven economy and promoting a favorable business climate.

“We are a reliable, forward-looking partner in the Asia-Pacific…Invest in the Filipino,” Marcos stressed. 

Deepening ties, partnerships 

Marcos will also meet with Korean business leaders in Gyeongju and Busan to attract investments and further strengthen economic and cultural cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea. He is expected to meet the Filipino community in Busan as well, his first engagement with the group as president.

Coming from the recently concluded 47th ASEAN Summit, Marcos said he would continue advocating for deeper collaboration between ASEAN and APEC members in building a sustainable, technology-driven future.

“As the Chair of ASEAN in 2026, our goal is to impart that working in silos impedes the region’s potential,” he said. “Real growth and lasting prosperity are achievable when we break down barriers and collaborate across sectors.”

Marcos also took the opportunity to reiterate his administration’s anti-corruption and fiscal discipline agenda, noting recent reforms at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that have cut project costs by up to 50% without compromising quality.

“The only thing weakened will be corruption. This is the accountability our citizens deserve. It will not be limited to the Public Works but shall be the norm across government,” he said.

“We are reducing costs for 2026 of the FMRs (farm-to-market roads), irrigation, classrooms, and hospitals… A government that honors public trust. A nation that stands firm on integrity — this is our promise,” he added.

Further, Marcos ordered agencies such as the Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Transportation and National Irrigation Administration to adopt the same pricing standards, emphasizing that savings must go to programs that uplift families and communities.

“The savings we secure will go where they matter most: To programs that uplift families, support livelihoods, and strengthen communities,” he said.

Before concluding his departure statement, Marcos noted that the ongoing meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping would likely influence discussions at APEC, given the potential global trade implications.

“The world is watching because this is the source of the largest shock that has entered the world trade system,” Marcos remarked. “The agreements between two of the largest economies in the world will certainly affect every single citizen.”

The President expressed confidence that the Philippines’ participation in the APEC summit would yield “concrete, meaningful outcomes” to enhance cooperation, boost connectivity, and advance inclusive prosperity across the region.

“When our people grow in capability and confidence, the nation grows with them,” Marcos said.