Business Bayani PH

The Philippines, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is fast becoming a prime choice for Japanese businesses and investors, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a statement released on Tuesday.

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) recently paid a courtesy visit to President Marcos at Malacañang Palace in Manila, where they acknowledged the government’s commitment to making the Philippines an attractive destination for investments.

JCCI Chairperson Ken Kobayashi expressed the Japanese business community’s interest in bolstering their partnerships with the Philippines. Notably, this marks the organization’s first economic mission since the pandemic.

Kobayashi pointed out that the Philippines’ sustained economic growth has piqued the interest of Japanese investors, who see the country as a potential hub for their operations due to the growing workforce and domestic demand.

He remarked, “In the Socioeconomic 8-Point Agenda that you have announced, Mr. President, prioritizes social security and the development of human capital. Also, it establishes the investment promotion, strengthening of digital infrastructure, the promotion of [the] green economy, and so forth, through which you are aiming at expanding and creating jobs.”

President Marcos responded by acknowledging Japan’s ongoing support for Philippine infrastructure development. He also highlighted the importance of new technologies and digital transformation in the global economy, explaining that the government is focusing on agriculture and climate change adaptation, in addition to infrastructure development, renewable energy, digitalization, and telecommunications.

Climate change, he noted, is a pressing issue that the Philippines is already experiencing, emphasizing the need for action. Marcos mentioned, “Also, we have put great priority on the development of our agricultural sector. And again, we had some very interesting discussions with our Japanese counterparts concerning the areas of agriculture. And that is something that I think that we can, we need to develop and to continue. Again, the subject of climate change becomes part of that discussion as agriculture is very much affected by the effects of climate change.”

The visit by JCCI, which includes approximately 70 high-ranking members representing Japan’s corporate sector, highlights the substantial interest Japanese businesses have in the Philippines. JCCI is Japan’s largest business organization, comprising 1.25 million companies ranging from large corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises and encompassing 515 local chambers across Japan.

The recognition of the Philippines as an appealing investment destination by the Japanese business community showcases the country’s growing economic potential under President Marcos Jr.’s leadership. With a focus on social security, human capital development, investment promotion, digital infrastructure, and the green economy, the Philippines is actively drawing Japanese investments and fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.

This newfound interest from Japanese investors reflects the nation’s resilient economic growth and points toward a promising future for both the Philippines and Japanese businesses looking to expand their operations in the country.◼

(Photo from Bongbong Marcos official FB page)