The over $21 billion in investment pledges and $63 million in development assistance secured by President Ferdinand Marcos during his recent official visit to the United States have a huge potential to drive economic growth and generate quality jobs for Filipinos, Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez said.
“These commitments are clear proof that President Marcos is doing what it takes to attract long-term capital that will translate into real benefits for our people—more jobs, more infrastructure, and more opportunities for every Filipino family,” Romualdez said.
In his arrival statement following a three-day official trip to Washington, D.C., President Marcos reported that his engagements resulted in over $21 billion in investment pledges from leading multinational companies.
He further announced that the US government committed $15 million in support of private sector development under the Luzon Economic Corridor Initiative, and an additional $48 million in foreign-assisted development projects.
Romualdez highlighted the importance of the President’s diplomatic efforts to bolster the Philippines’ longstanding alliance with the United States—not only to uphold regional peace and stability, but also to expand trade, investment, and economic cooperation that supports the country’s long-term development.
“The President has made it clear that the Philippines is open for business—and the world is responding positively. These investment commitments are the result of consistent leadership, credibility, and the country’s improving economic fundamentals,” Romualdez said.
“We are witnessing the early gains of Bagong Pilipinas—a nation that is globally connected, economically confident, and better equipped to rise above challenges,” he added.
For its part, the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PHILEXPORT) welcomed Mr. Marcos’ decision to lead recent trade negotiations with US President Donald Trump, calling it a reassuring demonstration of his commitment to the export sector and the broader Philippine economy.
“Many exporters were relieved and appreciative that the President himself took on the responsibility of being the chief negotiator. While the results may not have fully met our expectations in terms of tariff cuts, his involvement sends a strong and comforting signal of his concern for the export community,” PHILEXPORT said in a statement.
PHILEXPORT noted that while the new tariff rate of 19 percent remains relatively high, it is still lower than the previous level.
It added that the sectors that opened to US goods during the negotiations are unlikely to harm Philippine producers, as the country does not manufacture such products in large volumes.
On the contrary, exporters said the move could benefit local businesses and consumers, especially those that rely on imports of US technology and industrial inputs.
