Asean shoots for quality investments

MANILA, Philippines — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is targeting to attract higher quality investments to promote job creation, after the region received its highest level of foreign direct investments (FDIs) last year. 

In a press briefing, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said that attracting higher quality investments and ensuring ASEAN remains competitive and future ready in the green and digital transitions were discussed by economic ministers during the recently concluded ASEAN Investment Area Council meeting. 

“The meeting also highlighted the need to move beyond simply increasing investment volumes toward attracting investments that generate innovation, quality jobs, strengthen industrial capabilities and contribute to sustainable development,” he said. 

Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions and global uncertainty, he said that ASEAN remains an attractive destination for investments.

In particular, ASEAN attracted $243.9 billion in FDI last year, the highest level in the region’s history. 

This was also the fifth straight year that the region received more than $200 billion in annual FDI.

“The message from ASEAN today is clear: ASEAN remains open for business, committed to regional cooperation and determined to compete successfully in the industries of the future,” he said. 

In the Philippines, projects approved are expected to create more than 153,000 jobs.

Meanwhile, projects approved in the first six months of 2026 are expected to add nearly 54,000 jobs. 

Under the green lane initiative, which fast-tracks the country’s biggest strategic investments through streamlined permit approvals, the government has certified 239 projects worth P6.32 trillion since it started.

Once operational, these certified projects under the green lane program are expected to employ around 421,000 people.