Philippines strengthens ties, attracts investments at 32nd APEC Summit

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. cited on Sunday that the Philippines successfully advanced its interests and deepened regional cooperation following the conclusion of the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea (ROK).

Marcos highlighted the gains from his four-day visit, emphasizing new foreign investments and partnerships in strategic sectors.

“APEC-member economies, despite our diversity, share common aspirations, and we strongly resonated in our desire to move forward together,” he said, noting that discussions focused on pressing regional challenges, including supply chain disruptions, climate change, economic inequality, and the rapid pace of technological transformation.

The President also cited key global concerns discussed at the summit, such as the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), demographic shifts, and the growth of cultural and creative industries—issues aligned with the Philippines’ vision for a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready economy.

During the meetings, President Marcos advanced Philippine priorities, including narrowing the digital divide for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through equitable access to digital services and financial inclusion; promoting the seamless movement of goods and people through infrastructure development; strengthening supply chain resilience amid crises; and expanding digital literacy and upskilling programs for MSMEs, women, and other key sectors.

“These priorities were well-received, and we identified concrete ways forward, as reflected in the outcome documents adopted during the visit,” he added.

On the sidelines, Marcos held bilateral talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chilean President Gabriel Boric, reaffirming commitments to strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The President also met with executives from leading Korean conglomerates to explore partnerships in high-value sectors, including advanced electronics and semiconductors, clean energy, and defense-related industries.

Highlighting the Philippines’ growing attractiveness to investors, President Marcos witnessed the signing of a supplemental agreement between the Department of Trade and Industry’s Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines. Valued at over P50 billion, the project is expected to create more than 3,000 high-technology jobs for Filipino engineers and technicians. Samsung also committed to worker training programs and the establishment of research and development centers in partnership with local universities.

“Korean FDI inflows reached 55 million dollars in the first half of 2025, reflecting strong investor confidence that this administration seeks to translate into long-term commitments,” the President said.

Business meetings organized by the Department of Trade and Industry aimed to strengthen economic ties further, leveraging the momentum of the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force last year.

Marcos also met with the Filipino community in Busan, acknowledging their contributions to both the Philippines and the Republic of Korea.

“Now, as we return home, let us carry forward the momentum we have built, translating our commitments into tangible results, forging lasting partnerships, and ensuring that the Asia-Pacific region continues to thrive—inclusive, resilient, and sustainable,” he concluded.