President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Promotes Foreign Investment in the Philippines
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently expressed his commitment to attracting foreign investors to the Philippines by highlighting the country’s open economic zones. In an interview with a South Korean newspaper, he emphasized the government’s efforts to create an attractive business environment and outlined the benefits available to foreign companies operating within these zones.
The Appeal of Economic Zones for Foreign Investors
President Marcos Jr. emphasized that the Philippines offers economic zones that are open to all foreign investors. These zones provide attractive arrangements, including a common tax code and incentive scheme, making them a desirable destination for businesses planning to operate in the country. Marcos specifically mentioned the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone in Clark City, Pampanga, as an example of a successful economic zone that has attracted significant foreign investments.
The government has implemented measures to simplify the process for foreign companies to establish a presence in these economic zones. Marcos highlighted that locator companies in these zones do not have to navigate through each individual local government unit, streamlining the administrative procedures for businesses.
Special Economic Zones: A Catalyst for Foreign Investment
Special Economic Zones in the Philippines, managed by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), are strategically designed to attract foreign investors. These zones encompass various types of areas, such as industrial estates, export processing zones, free trade zones, and tourist/recreational centers. Foreign companies that choose to set up operations within these zones enjoy several incentives, including exemptions from certain taxes and duties, as well as the possibility of obtaining permanent resident status for major investors.
The success of these special economic zones has been evident since the start of the investment drive in the Philippines. President Marcos Jr. mentioned that there has been a substantial increase in serious inquiries from foreign companies interested in investing in the country. These zones offer an environment conducive to business growth and provide a platform for foreign companies to explore the opportunities available in the Philippines.
Transforming the Philippines for the Future
President Marcos Jr. believes that attracting foreign investment is crucial for transforming the Philippines into a future-ready nation. His administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign aims to revolutionize the country’s economic policies, fostering greater investment and trade. Marcos emphasized the need to move away from traditional practices and embrace a new approach to ensure the Philippines remains competitive in the next 50 years.
To achieve this vision, President Marcos Jr. highlighted the importance of transforming the bureaucracy and the way business is conducted in the country. He acknowledged that the Filipino workforce is a valuable asset, particularly their proficiency in English and familiarity with working alongside foreign entities. The government aims to capitalize on the digital space to provide training opportunities, equipping Filipinos with the skills required for the modern labor market.
President Marcos Jr. emphasized that the government must adopt a new mindset to drive these changes. By harnessing the potential of the Filipino workforce and leveraging technology, the Philippines can position itself as an integral part of the global economy while promoting peace and stability.
In conclusion, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is actively promoting the Philippines as an attractive destination for foreign investors. The country’s economic zones offer a range of incentives and benefits to foreign companies, facilitating their entry into the market. President Marcos Jr.’s vision for a future-ready Philippines involves transforming the economy, streamlining bureaucracy, and empowering the Filipino workforce. With these measures in place, the Philippines is poised to attract more foreign investment and secure its position as a key player in the global economy.
Source: The Manila Times