The Philippines has achieved a significant economic milestone, with strategic investments in the country reaching PhP 4.6 trillion, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced on Thursday.
President Marcos stated that the milestone results from the government’s efforts to streamline investment processes and collaborate with various agencies to attract more investors.
The President stated that the influx of investments is expected to generate about 300,000 jobs for Filipinos, offering them improved livelihoods and meaningful personal and professional growth opportunities.
During Thursday’s Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan Milestone Event held in Malacañang, President Marcos announced that the government had certified 187 strategic investments in key sectors, including energy, digital infrastructure, food security, and manufacturing, as of February 2025.
Some of these investments, he said, were obtained with the help of Executive Order (EO) No. 18, known as Green Lanes for Strategic Investment, which facilitates a fast track for significant big, high-impact projects in the Philippines. A One-Stop-Action-Center fast-tracks and assists the issuance of permits and licenses to investors.
The President mentioned the EDC-Project Charlie Hyperscale Data Center in New Clark City, Tarlac, as a key beneficiary of Green Lanes.
He cited two solar power projects in Pangasinan that are currently operating, including the 159 megawatt-peak Laoag and the 94 megawatt-peak Cayanga-Bugallon.
The streamlined process demonstrates the administration’s commitment to reducing red tape and fostering economic growth to create more jobs for Filipinos.
“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,” the President said.
The government hopes these investments will reduce the prices of goods and services due to increased competition. Improved transportation, energy, and communication systems are expected due to new technologies introduced by investors.
President Marcos likewise thanked the members of the Investments Facilitation Network, along with the national and local government agencies, for their consistent dedication to enhancing the Philippines as a more attractive investment destination.
“You have helped build an environment where businesses can succeed and, in turn, where our people can lead better and more dignified lives,” the President said. | PND
