PH showcases pro-business reforms to Dutch investors

The Philippine government engaged Dutch investors in a high-level business dialogue in the Netherlands, highlighting the country’s strong economic growth and investment-friendly reforms.

Organized by the Department of Finance (DOF) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC), and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the event gathered over 30 Dutch business and financial leaders. It was hosted by ING Bank.

Finance Undersecretaries Maria Luwalhati Dorotan-Tiuseco and Domini Velasquez led the Philippine delegation, alongside DTI Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo and BSP Monetary Board Member Rosalia de Leon.

ING CEO Steven van Rijswijk lauded the Philippines’ economic trajectory, citing over 100 Dutch companies that have invested in the country, generating over $5 billion in export revenues and employing 350,000 Filipinos.

Velasquez emphasized the country’s investment advantages, including a growing consumer market, a skilled workforce, and ongoing infrastructure expansion. She also highlighted the CREATE MORE Act, which aims to enhance the long-term success of businesses.

Rodolfo outlined priority investment sectors, such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, green metals, tourism, and renewable energy. Meanwhile, De Leon underscored the BSP’s initiatives to modernize payment systems, deepen capital markets, and promote financial stability.

The Netherlands remains the Philippines’ second-largest trading partner in Europe and a key source of foreign direct investments, with around 130 Dutch firms operating in the country. The dialogue reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to strengthening economic ties and expanding investment opportunities.