President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during his three-day state visit to Singapore from 14 to 16 July, secured investment commitments for the Philippines’ healthcare and digital infrastructure sectors, highlighting efforts to expand medical services, strengthen internet connectivity and generate more jobs.

The fresh investment commitments in digital infrastructure and healthcare are expected to generate about 10,000 jobs and accelerate the Philippines’ digital transformation following Marcos Jr.’s meetings with major Singapore-based investors on Wednesday.

After his meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Marcos held separate discussions with executives of ABC Impact, the Ayala Group, and Temasek Trust, focusing on expanding investments in the country’s healthcare sector.

Support for continued

AC Health expansion

ABC Impact reaffirmed its support for the continued expansion of AC Health, the Ayala Group’s healthcare arm, as demand for medical services grows across the country.

The planned expansion will increase AC Health’s nationwide network to at least 10 hospitals, 300 clinics and 1,150 pharmacies, broadening access to healthcare services while generating employment opportunities.

By 2027, AC Health aims to grow its nationwide network to at least 10 hospitals, 300 clinics and 1,150 pharmacies, an expansion expected to generate around 10,000 direct healthcare and retail jobs, subject to the final mix of new facilities and acquisitions.

Marcos also met with officials of Singtel Group which has maintained operations in the Philippines since 1993, as the telecommunications company reaffirmed its plans to expand investments in the country’s digital infrastructure.

Singtel’s further AI investments

Singtel is committed to further investments in artificial intelligence, cloud technologies and data center infrastructure, reinforcing its long-term presence in the Philippine digital sector.

The expansion includes additional data centers and other digital facilities expected to improve internet connectivity, support economic growth, and create more jobs.

“Singtel Group’s continued expansion in AI, cloud technologies, and data center infrastructure will create more high-value jobs and strengthen the digital backbone that supports businesses, innovation, and economic growth,” Marcos stated.

The investment commitments form part of the administration’s broader strategy to attract foreign capital into healthcare, digital infrastructure, and other technology-driven industries.

New bilateral agreements

Beyond economic cooperation, the nations also expressed support for new bilateral agreements aimed at deepening cooperation between the two countries and reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Furthermore, Wong also congratulated the Philippines on attaining upper-middle-income country status, saying the country’s economic progress reflects sustained growth despite global uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East.