Philippines pushed as prime foreign investment hub

CEBU, Philippines — BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) has partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to strengthen the flow of foreign investments into the Philippines.

According to BDO Unibank’s executive vice president and head of institutional banking group Charles M. Rodriguez, the partnership will focus on organizing investment seminars, business matching activities, and industry promotion missions designed to position the Philippines as a prime destination for foreign investments.

These initiatives will highlight the country’s skilled workforce, growing industries, and strategic position in Asia. The goal is to attract investments in key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure, fostering the creation of new factories, jobs, and innovations that will benefit Filipinos.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to making the Philippines a key investment destination for both foreign and local businesses. Through these investments, we contribute to the country’s economic growth, which has consistently ranked among the strongest in the ASEAN region over the past decades,” said Rodriguez.

DTI Undersecretary and Board of Investments Managing Head, Dr. Ceferino S.

Rodolfo, underscored the strategic benefits of the partnership saying by combining BDO’s financial expertise and DTI’s investment policy leadership, “we can create a more competitive environment for investors.”

“This collaboration ensures that the Philippines is recognized not just as a growing market, but as a destination for sustainable, long-term investments,” added Rodolfo.

The partnership aims to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by connecting them with foreign companies that bring advanced technology, capital, and innovative business practices.

In doing so, local industries can enjoy protracted growth and be more capable of providing opportunities for Filipino workers.

“It’s vital to empower the private sector to leverage market-based tools, as we share common stakeholders. There are so many initiatives where we have partnered already, and we will continue to work together to entice more investors. This synergy will help position the Philippines as a smart and sustainable manufacturing and services hub in

Southeast Asia,” noted Rodolfo adding that the government must be proactive in facilitating such partnerships, as the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing economies in the fastest growing region.