DOF promotes Philippines as prime investment hub

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has called on global investors to consider the Philippines as their next investment destination, highlighting the country’s ongoing reforms and strong economic fundamentals.

In a Bloomberg TV interview on Wednesday, Recto revealed that global tech giant Samsung has expressed interest in investing more than PHP50 billion in the country.

"Samsung is talking to us for a possible investment... They're applying under the incentives for CREATE and many more," Recto said.

Speaking at the Philippine Stock Exchange’s (PSE) inaugural InvestPH 2025 conference in Bonifacio Global City, Recto emphasized the government’s efforts to dismantle barriers to doing business and create an investor-friendly environment.

InvestPH 2025, running from March 19 to 21, is the largest investor conference focused on promoting the Philippine capital market and attracting foreign and domestic investments. The event is co-hosted by HSBC Philippines, in partnership with Bloomberg LP and Maybank Securities, Inc.

Recto highlighted reforms like the creation of Green Lanes for faster processing of investments and the passage of the Public-Private Partnership Code and CREATE MORE Act, which provide long-term incentives for foreign and local investors.

“CREATE MORE is designed to bring you in, help you grow, and give every reason for you to place your trust in the Philippines, again and again,” Recto said.

He also noted the country’s upcoming exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) gray list, which he said would further boost investor confidence alongside the expected passage of the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act (CMEPA). CMEPA aims to make investing in local markets more cost-competitive by reducing the stock transaction tax.

Recto underscored the Philippines' strategic advantage as the gateway to ASEAN and its large consumer base, projected to become the 13th largest in the world by 2030.

“Consumer demand comprises 72 percent of our economy. We are not overly dependent on exports, making us more resilient to trade wars,” he added.

The finance chief also touted the country’s youthful and skilled workforce, with a median age of 25, describing it as “the ideal demographic partner for long-term success.”

Addressing concerns about political developments, Recto assured investors that recent events, such as the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, have had minimal impact on market sentiment.

“There was a slight reduction in the stock exchange, but very subdued. The peso even appreciated that day. It could also mean that the international community is recognizing our respect for the rule of law,” he said.