Manila, Philippines - Lawmakers hailed the successful outcome of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s international efforts to attract foreign investment, highlighted by the recent arrival of a high-level United States trade and investment mission in the Philippines. During a press conference on Monday, Deputy Speaker David Suarez praised President Marcos's role in facilitating the significant visit, attributing the mission's inception to the President's active engagement and promotional activities abroad.
According to Philippines News Agency, the US trade mission's presence in Manila is a testament to the tangible benefits of foreign direct investments (FDIs) for the Philippines, particularly in bolstering the country's economy and reinforcing its national defense amid regional tensions. "This initiative is timely as we deliberate on proposed economic amendments to the Constitution aimed at attracting more foreign investments," Suarez stated, highlighting the potential impact of constitutional reforms on facilitating investment.
Echoing Suarez's sentiments, 1-RIDER Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez emphasized the role of the proposed economic constitutional amendments in creating a more inviting environment for foreign investors. Gutierrez pointed out the strategic value of President Marcos's international visits, which have now begun to yield positive results with the launch of this unprecedented US trade and investment mission.
Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Lordan Suan also commended President Marcos for his proactive approach in promoting the Philippines on the global stage, underscoring the importance of supporting these efforts through economic reforms. "It's crucial that we aid him by amending restrictive economic provisions in our Charter, thereby easing the pathway for foreign investments," Suan remarked.
The mission, led by US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo from March 11 to 12, includes 21 American business leaders and senior corporate executives. The delegation also features notable figures such as celebrity and philanthropist Allan Pineda, better known as Apl.de.Ap from the Black Eyed Peas and founder of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International, highlighting the diverse interest and potential for collaboration between the two nations.
The arrival of the US trade mission not only signifies a milestone in the Philippines' efforts to deepen ties with international investors but also reinforces the country's strategic position in the global economic landscape.