MANILA— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted investment opportunities, economic partnerships and energy security initiatives following his five-day working visit to Singapore from October 7 to 11, which included his participation in the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference and meetings with government and business leaders.

Marcos and his delegation arrived in Manila at 1:54 a.m. after the visit, according to the government.

In his post-visit message, the President said his meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong focused on sustaining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) priorities as the Philippines prepares to turn over the regional bloc’s chairship to Singapore next month.

“I am pleased with my discussions with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, particularly on our shared interest in ensuring continuity and sustaining momentum in ASEAN priorities,” Marcos said.

“As our term as ASEAN Chair draws to a close and we prepare to hand over to Singapore next month, these back-to-back engagements could not be more timely,” he added.

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

His priorities included expanding exports, improving the business climate through tax incentives and digital reforms, and advancing major infrastructure projects such as the $20-billion Luzon Economic Corridor.

The President also highlighted plans to strengthen research and development, expand regional digital cooperation, address corruption and deepen international economic ties.

“I spoke of our drive to move up the technology ladder into research and development and to lead in regional digital cooperation, supported by a young, highly skilled, English-speaking and tech-savvy workforce,” he said.

Marcos also reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea.

“I also emphasized our national resolve to fight corruption, strengthen digital safeguards, build strong international economic ties, firmly protect our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, and contribute to regional peace and stability,” he said.

During meetings with business executives, Marcos discussed investment and expansion plans involving FedEx, Mitsubishi Corporation 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 projected to boost international air freight and specialized cargo capacity, potentially helping micro, small and medium enterprises reach global markets.

Marcos also cited the Philippines’ renewable energy targets of raising the share of renewables in power generation to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

He said the country must prepare its energy supply, infrastructure, technology and workforce to meet the requirements of emerging industries.

“I am confident that the interest shown by investors in these engagements will bring more high-value investments, partnerships, technology and jobs to the Philippines, particularly in sectors that will support our long-term growth and transformation,” he said.

As part of the visit, Marcos toured the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute to learn about the country’s nuclear research and technology initiatives, particularly in safety.

The President said the engagement strengthened cooperation between the two countries and could create additional opportunities for investment and collaboration.

“To power our growth, we will keep studying all viable options for our long-term energy security and build the technical capability to make informed decisions for our future,” Marcos said.