President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. announced Thursday that the Philippines has reached a significant economic milestone, with strategic investments in the country totaling P4.6 trillion.
“This milestone results from the government's efforts to streamline investment processes and collaborate with various agencies to attract more investors,” Marcos said during the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan Milestone Event in Malacañang Palace.
He noted that the influx of investments is expected to create about 300,000 jobs for Filipinos, providing better livelihoods and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
During his speech, the President said the government had certified 187 strategic investments in key sectors, including energy, digital infrastructure, food security, and manufacturing, as of February 2025.
Marcos attributed some of these investments to Executive Order (EO) No. 18, also known as Green Lanes for Strategic Investment, which facilitates the speedy implementation of large, high-impact projects in the Philippines. He also highlighted the One-Stop Action Center, which streamlines and expedites the issuance of permits and licenses for investors.
Among the projects Marcos mentioned was the EDC-Project Charlie Hyperscale Data Center in New Clark City, Tarlac, a notable beneficiary of Green Lanes. He also cited two solar power projects in Pangasinan — the 159 megawatt-peak Laoag and the 94 megawatt-peak Cayanga-Bugallon — which are currently operational.
“The goal is simple: less red tape, more action, more results, more success, more quickly. We want investments to come in, projects to break ground faster, [and] jobs to reach our people sooner. Because when businesses move quickly, progress follows just as fast,” said Marcos.
The President further stated that the new wave of investments is expected to lower prices of goods and services through increased competition and introduce technologies that can enhance transportation, energy, and communication systems.