President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that the Philippines secured approximately US$2.5 billion in investment commitments from Canadian companies during his official visit to Canada. The investments span mining, energy, information technology and business process management, and the digital economy.
President highlights successful trip
Speaking on the sidelines of his visit, Marcos said the commitments will significantly boost the country's economic growth. He met with several major Canadian firms that expressed interest in investing in the Philippines.
“Our trip was truly successful, where we agreed on several initiatives between the government and the private sector,” Marcos stated.
Continued efforts pledged
The President emphasized that the work does not stop here. “Hard work, though, does not end here. We will continue to strive so that what we achieved and started in Canada will flourish and be felt by more Filipinos,” he said.
Malacañang also confirmed that negotiations for a possible free trade agreement between the Philippines and Canada are ongoing, aimed at further strengthening the economies of both nations.
AI hubs and workforce training
During the visit, discussions included the establishment of artificial intelligence hubs and training centers in the Philippines to enhance AI workforce skills.
Marcos also praised Canada's continued support for a rules-based international order and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), particularly regarding the South China Sea.
Strategic partnership elevated
Earlier, President Marcos announced that Philippines-Canada relations have been elevated to a strategic partnership following his official visit. He noted that deeper cooperation in security, trade, energy, technology, and other sectors was agreed upon with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with officials and business leaders.
