Marcos underscores APEC’s role in strengthening Phl economy, job creation

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the vital role of the Philippines’ participation in the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in driving inclusive growth, boosting trade and investment, and expanding opportunities for Filipino workers.

Marcos, speaking before members of the Filipino community in Busan, South Korea,said the APEC summit, set in Gyeongju, will focus on strategies to accelerate economic recovery, promote sustainable development, and empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“Para sa Pilipinas, malaking tulong ang APEC. Pinag-uusapan sa APEC kung paano mapapadali ang pagpasok ng negosyo (For the Philippines, APEC is very useful (For the Philippines, APEC is a great help. In APEC, discussions are held on how to make it easier for businesses to enter),” Marcos said.

“Mas maraming negosyo, mas maraming trabaho. Mas maraming trabaho, mas maraming oportunidad at mas matibay na ekonomiya para sa mga pamilya natin (More businesses mean more jobs. More jobs mean more opportunities and a stronger economy for our families),” he added.

The president underscored that APEC serves as a key platform for enhancing cooperation not only in trade and investment but also in education and workforce development.

Through APEC partnerships, he said, more Filipino youth will gain access to training and scholarship programs, particularly in digital skills, science, and technology.

Marcos said he will use the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) to advocate for initiatives that have a direct and tangible impact on Filipinos, such as supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), promoting digital trade, ensuring food and energy security, and generating sustainable employment both domestically and overseas.

The Chief Executive also announced plans to hold meetings with business leaders and government representatives from across the Asia-Pacific region to attract greater investment in key Philippine industries, including technology, agriculture, and renewable energy.

“Our participation in APEC 2025 shows that the Philippines is an active and responsible partner in building a more innovative, fair, and interconnected Asia-Pacific region,” he said.

“We stand ready to work with our neighbors to ensure that progress is shared — no Filipino is left behind," he added.

The 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting brings together heads of state and government from 21 member economies to discuss policies that promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across the Asia-Pacific region.