President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged foreign investors and business leaders to establish their next enterprises in the Philippines through investments in the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC).
During his speech at the 2026 LEC Investment Forum at the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Marcos said the Philippines is positioning itself as a reliable and attractive destination for long-term investment as global supply chains are redesigned and technology transforms the way goods and services are delivered.
“To the investors and business leaders here today: I invite you to build with us. Build your next enterprise in the Philippines,” Marcos said.
“Bring your capital, technology, your expertise. Develop Filipino talent and local suppliers. Form lasting partnerships with our businesses and communities,” he added.
Marcos said the government is streamlining procedures and providing greater policy clarity, emphasizing that long-term investors need consistent rules, credible institutions, timely decisions, and commitments that endure.
“You can place your trust in the Philippines. We know that trust is earned through consistent action,” the President said.
He assured investors that the government would continue providing stability, infrastructure, skilled workers, and a responsive government to support long-term investments.
“We want you to succeed here because your success will create opportunities for our people,” Marcos said.
The President said his administration is directing government agencies to work together, with national and local governments coordinating with the private sector, universities, and international partners to advance priority investments under the LEC.
The LEC was launched by the Philippines, the United States, and Japan in 2024 to strengthen connectivity among Subic Bay, Clark, Metro Manila, and Batangas, said the President.
Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom have since joined the initiative as partner countries.
Marcos said the growing international support reflects confidence in the Philippines as a reliable partner and destination for long-term investments.
He highlighted the distinct economic strengths of areas covered by the corridor, describing Subic Bay as a strategic maritime and industrial gateway; Clark as an emerging hub for aviation, logistics, technology, and urban development; Metro Manila as the country’s commercial and financial center; and Batangas as a major base for manufacturing, energy, and international trade.
“By connecting these areas more efficiently, we are creating a powerful economic platform for Luzon and the entire country,” Marcos said.
He added that the LEC is “not simply a collection of infrastructure projects” but a strategy for organizing economic growth.
“The Philippines is ready. Come and build with us. Invest in the Filipino. Place your trust in the Philippines,” Marcos said.
“Let us build a more connected and competitive Luzon—and through it, a stronger and more inclusive Philippines,” he added.
Around 600 international investors, industry leaders, project developers, and government officials are attending the forum, which aims to showcase infrastructure projects that are ready for financing.
Meanwhile, tension erupted outside the venue as police and progressive groups clashed during a rally organized by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan).
The protesters voiced opposition to the Pax Silica initiative, which they said is being pushed by the United States in the Philippines.
They also denounced the LEC investment forum, accusing the US government of acting like a colonial ruler by promoting investments they claimed were aimed at exploiting the country’s natural resources.
