Marcos at APEC CEO Summit 2025: PH eager to do business with you

GYEONGJU, South Korea — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed confidence that the Philippines is ready to do business with Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) member-economies. 

"The Philippines is open and ready and eager to do business with you," Marcos said during his speech at the APEC CEO Summit.

Marcos highlighted the country's strategic position as well as its dynamic workforce as he invited member-economies to do business with the Philippines.

Marcos said the Philippines stands ready to engage constructively amid global trade uncertainties.

''Our priorities are clear: to accelerate inclusive economic growth, attract strategic investments, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving trade architecture of our region,'' Marcos said.

The Philippine government is undertaking deep, institutional reforms to unlock private capital and sustain competitiveness, Marcos said.

''These reforms are designed to transform our investment landscape, improve operational efficiency, and ensure a business-friendly environment,” Marcos said.

He even cited key measures such as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code, and Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act, which streamline procedures, enhance incentives, and strengthen investor confidence.

Private sector

The Philippine president also highlighted the significant role of the private sector in the business industry.

Marcos mentioned that despite progress, barriers such as regulatory fragmentation, uneven digital infrastructure, and supply chain vulnerabilities persist, which hinder full economic integration and inclusive growth.

''To overcome these challenges, the private sector must intensify its role in policy advocacy and cross-border standardization,'' he said.

He encouraged industry leaders to share best practices, advance unified regional standards for data exchange, and co-develop interoperable digital tools that will foster a transparent and inclusive digital ecosystem. — VDV/RSJ, GMA Integrated News