Fast and furious SG opportunities

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. returned to work last week after a five-day working visit to Singapore, resuming his field visits to identify the public services Filipinos still need.

Marcos was in the city-state from 7 to 11 October at the invitation of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The trip was meant to strengthen economic ties and coordinate priorities ahead of Singapore’s assumption of the ASEAN chairmanship in 2027.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the visit focused on trade and investment, as well as digital technology, artificial intelligence, the green economy, smart infrastructure, renewable energy and healthcare.

Marcos joined a question-and-answer session at the Forbes Global CEO Conference on 8 October and visited the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute on 9 October. The institute visit came as his administration ramps up efforts to bring nuclear energy into the country’s power mix.

He also attended the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, which he called a “happy coincidence” that gave him a chance to meet potential investors.

12 October

Chasing precious capital

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted new investment opportunities, stronger economic partnerships, and energy security during his visit to Singapore.

He said discussions with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong focused on sustaining momentum in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agenda as the Philippines prepares to hand over the ASEAN chairship to Singapore next month.

At the Forbes Global CEO conference, Marcos presented the Philippines’ economic priorities and growth plans to about 470 business leaders, chief executive officers, and policymakers.

These include expanding exports, improving the business environment through tax incentives and digital reforms, and advancing major infrastructure projects such as the $20-billion Luzon Economic Corridor.

FedEx expansion

In his meetings with business executives, the President discussed investments and expansion plans involving FedEx, Mitsubishi Corp. and Vena Energy.

FedEx is preparing to expand its Clark Gateway Hub in Pampanga, which is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2028. The facility is expected to increase international air freight and specialized cargo capacity, helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) access global markets.

Beyond investments, the President emphasized the need to prepare the country’s energy supply, infrastructure, technology, and workforce to support future industries.

Nuke, tech cooperation

As part of this effort, President Marcos visited the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute to learn about Singapore’s work in nuclear research and technology, particularly on safety.

The President said the visit strengthened the Philippines’ partnership with Singapore and opened more opportunities for investment and cooperation.

Back in Malacañang, Marcos received outgoing Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Miguel Utray who paid a farewell call. He thanked Utray for strengthening the cooperation between the Philippines and Spain during his four-year tour of duty.

13 October

Extreme weather prep

As the country braces for the worst El Niño this year and early next year, the President urged the public to conserve water and prepare for a potential dry spell by collecting rainwater.

The President is taking the threat seriously, citing the ongoing coordination with the El Niño Task Force which he convened on Tuesday to update the preparations to protect the public from the adverse climate effects.

Mini-shuffle

Marcos officiated the oath-taking of Robert Joseph de Claro as the new acting secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and filmmaker Lino Cayetano as the new acting secretary of the Presidential Communications Office.

De Claro is the former president of the Social Security System.

Cayetano was tasked by the President to expand the PCO’s engagement with media and strengthen face-to-face communications to help Filipinos better understand government programs and services.

Support for sports, media

The Chief Executive met with members of the Philippine Fencing Association and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting Filipino athletes and expanding sports development programs nationwide.

He emphasized the importance of encouraging young Filipinos to participate in sports, citing its role in physical, social, and character development.

Marcos also administered the oath to the newly elected officers of Malacañang Media Groups, comprising the Malacañang Press Corps, the Press Photographers Association and the Malacañang Cameramen Association.

He underscored the importance of a free and independent press in a democracy, calling for mutual respect and open dialogue between the government and the media even when they disagree.

14 October

Expanded TUPAD coverage

On Wednesday, the President led the launch of seven flagship innovations under the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program to provide disadvantaged Filipinos with more sustainable employment and income opportunities, at Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The President also interacted with at least 75 TUPAD beneficiaries, many of whom were fisherfolk who received livelihood assistance, including fishing boats and fishpens.

The seven flagship innovations are SkillPass, Tropa Negosyo Trabaho, Sagip-Trabaho, KaHANAP, Match Fund LGU, Tulong-Aral and Trabahong-Dagat.

Wages that enhance welfare

The President then proceeded to the 26th National Public Employment Service Office Congress, where he said the wage increases taking effect in Central Visayas would help improve workers’ earnings and support their families.

Marcos noted that covered private-sector workers would receive an additional P42 in their daily minimum wage while domestic workers or kasambahay would receive a P500 increase in their monthly minimum wage.

The President acknowledged the challenges Filipino jobseekers face amid an unpredictable global economy, further affected by tensions in various parts of the world.

Marcos also assured workers that the government would continue expanding employment opportunities while urging them to strengthen their skills, gain experience, and take advantage of learning and development opportunities.

15 October

UPS hub opening lauded

The President graced the opening of the $80-million United Parcel Service Clark International air hub in Pampanga, underscoring the importance of delivering promised major investments to create more jobs for Filipinos, particularly outside Metro Manila.

Marcos said the facility, which began construction in February 2025 and opened as scheduled in October 2026, demonstrated the government’s commitment to fulfilling investment pledges and delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities.

Fulfill commitments

The President directed the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry to submit reports on unfinished projects, including their target opening dates.

The directive aims to ensure investment commitments are fulfilled on schedule so communities can benefit sooner from new businesses, jobs, and economic activity. The President stressed that timely project delivery is essential to maintaining investor confidence.

More charging stations

The government shared plans to expand electric vehicle charging hubs nationwide to help transport operators increase earnings and enable commuters to benefit from lower fares through fuel cost savings.

During his inspection of the Balanga Green Mobility Hub in Bataan, President Marcos said the government supports electric vehicles (EVs) by establishing additional charging stations nationwide.

The President said the government is implementing similar projects in other local government units to expand EV adoption and promote more efficient and affordable public transportation.

The hub is expected to serve up to 24 vehicles and 1,394 passengers daily. If other LGUs adopt similar projects, more communities could benefit from lower transportation costs, reduced dependence on imported oil, and improved public transportation services.

16 October

China envoy’s threat

On Friday, the President, in a chance interview with the media, said the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines’ remarks suggesting China could easily win if it resorted to force warranted discussion, describing the statement as sounding like a threat and one that was inconsistent with diplomatic conduct.

The President attended the Philippine Coast Guard’s 125th anniversary celebration at the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal in Manila when reporters asked him to comment on Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan’s statement.

At the occasion, the President congratulated the PCG’s outstanding personnel, maritime units, and civilian employees for their exemplary service and dedication to duty.

He recognized Coast Guard personnel and units whose professionalism and commitment have strengthened maritime safety, security, and public service.