Greater Manila Bay area proposal requires further examination, says economic adviser

The proposed development of the Greater Manila Bay Area, inspired by China’s successful Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, will need extensive study before moving forward, according to Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go.

Go explained that while the idea of creating a Greater Manila Bay Area to boost economic development is promising, it must be carefully examined alongside the ongoing Luzon economic corridor development. “The Luzon economic corridor and its associated rail projects intersect with the Manila Bay area,” Go noted. “Therefore, the concept of a Greater Manila Bay Area is intriguing but requires a more in-depth study.”

The proposal emerged from a recent Manila Forum for Philippines-China Relations, where Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. President Cecilio Pedro revealed that Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian had suggested the development of the Greater Manila Bay Area, drawing parallels with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, known for its robust economic performance with a $1.98 trillion GDP, consists of nine cities in Guangdong province along with Hong Kong and Macao. This area has been designed to foster regional cooperation and economic integration, serving as a model for the proposed Greater Manila Bay Area.

In the Philippines, the Luzon economic corridor is advancing with support from the United States and Japan, following the Trilateral Leaders’ Summit held in April. This corridor, which is part of the G7's Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, includes major projects such as the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway System, Clark International Airport expansion, and the Clark National Food Hub.

Go emphasized the need for funding to conduct a comprehensive study and develop a master plan for the Greater Manila Bay Area project. He welcomed support for such studies, highlighting that thorough planning is essential before any large-scale implementation.

Despite ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, Go affirmed the Philippines’ commitment to maintaining strong trade relations with China and welcoming investments from legitimate sources. “We are open to investments from anywhere in the world, provided they contribute to our economy and create jobs for Filipinos,” he said.