PBBM touts digital economy, nuclear energy
The most critical benefit President Marcos can secure for the Filipino people from his Singapore visit is the creation of high-quality, future-ready jobs through massive foreign direct investment.
During his working visit to Singapore from 7 to 11 October, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. secured key economic engagements and explored long-term strategic partnerships.
Key milestones from his five-day trip include:
Global Investment Drive. As a guest speaker at the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference, the President pitched the Philippines as a premier investment destination to more than 450 global business leaders. He held an “In Conversation” session with Forbes President and CEO Steve Forbes to promote opportunities in digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Nuclear Energy Cooperation. President Marcos toured the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute (SNRSI). The visit focused on exploring technical knowledge, safety regulations, and building a regulatory framework as part of his administration’s push to secure affordable and clean energy for the Philippines.
Bilateral Relations. He met with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to discuss bilateral relations and regional coordination, especially as Singapore prepares for its upcoming ASEAN chairmanship. The two leaders also engaged during the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix weekend.
The most critical benefit President Marcos can secure for the Filipino people from his Singapore visit is the creation of high-quality, future-ready jobs through massive foreign direct investment.
By directly pitching the country’s economic potential to 450 global tycoons and corporate leaders at the Forbes Global CEO Conference, the administration aims to translate high-level business pledges into tangible local opportunities.
The primary long-term benefits for the public include:
Jobs Creation in Tech Innovation. Securing investments in digital technology, AI, and advanced manufacturing shifts the local job market toward higher-paying, tech-driven careers.
Lower Energy Costs. The administration’s engagement with SNRSI lays the technical framework for exploring safe, clean, and affordable nuclear energy, which aims to eventually lower electricity bills for Filipino households and businesses.
Infrastructure and Healthcare Upgrades. Promoting infrastructure and medical sector partnerships brings in foreign capital to modernize public transport, digital networks, and medical facilities back home.
President Marcos’s visit to Singapore was anchored on key milestones.
Investment Pledges and High-Level Business Pushes
During the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference, the President actively courted global tycoons by pitching the Philippines as a top-tier destination for specialized sectors, resulting in critical high-level discussions.
FedEx Logistics Hub Expansion. President Marcos met with Richard Smith, president and CEO, Airline International, of FedEx, to discuss the company’s rapid local growth. FedEx confirmed that its expanded Clark Gateway Hub in Pampanga is on track to open in the fourth quarter of 2028, a project slated to significantly boost international freight capacity for local businesses.
The Pax Silica Project. The President pushed for the country’s inclusion in the US-led Pax Silica project, an initiative focused on constructing a strategic global network of AI hubs. The goal is to set up high-tech industries and factories in the Luzon Economic Corridor.
Reflection on Energy Potential. During his tour of the SNRSI, Marcos reflected on the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, which was mothballed in 1986, expressing regret that it was never put into operation.
He emphasized that the focus today must be on securing clean energy at cheaper rates for citizens, regardless of the energy sources.