In a major move set to reshape the country's infrastructure landscape, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. (AEV) and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), now part of BlackRock, have officially cemented their strategic alliance. The parties have signed definitive agreements finalizing GIP's significant investment in Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC).
A ₱13.7 Billion Partnership for Growth
The core of the deal involves a substantial financial commitment from the global investment giant. GIP is set to invest a total of PHP 13.7 billion into AIC. This capital infusion will be executed through a two-pronged approach: purchasing secondary shares from AEV and subscribing to new primary shares issued by AIC itself.
Upon the transaction's successful completion, which is still pending regulatory nods and standard closing conditions, the ownership structure will see a decisive shift. GIP will acquire a 40% stake in Aboitiz InfraCapital, while the Aboitiz Group, through AEV, will retain a controlling 60% interest. This balance ensures local expertise remains at the helm while integrating global scale.
Combining Local Mastery with Global Expertise
Sabin M. Aboitiz, President and CEO of the Aboitiz Group, highlighted the strategic value GIP brings to the table. He emphasized that GIP's deep global experience across critical sectors like energy, transport, and digital infrastructure will empower AIC to scale its operations more rapidly and generate sustainable, long-term value for the Philippines.
Echoing this sentiment, Ray Nadarajah, Emerging Markets Partner at GIP, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. He stated that the partnership is rooted in a shared goal to accelerate the development of essential infrastructure in the Philippines. By merging GIP's worldwide investment capabilities with Aboitiz's entrenched local knowledge and operational excellence, the alliance aims to deliver projects that strengthen communities, fuel economic progress, and create lasting impact.
Focus on Critical National Assets
Aboitiz InfraCapital is a key player in developing and managing vital infrastructure assets nationwide. Its diversified portfolio focuses on several high-impact areas:
- Airports: Driving modernization and efficiency in air travel connectivity.
- Water and Wastewater: Ensuring sustainable water supply and management systems.
- Digital Infrastructure: Building the foundational networks crucial for a digital economy.
The company also provides centralized platform governance and shared services across these projects, ensuring operational synergy and best practices.
Building on Strong Confidence in the Philippines
This finalized partnership advances the initial disclosure made in July 2025, marking a concrete step forward. It reflects a robust, shared confidence in the growth trajectory and investment potential of the Philippine infrastructure sector. The alliance is poised to supercharge the expansion and long-term development of AIC's portfolio, directly supporting the nation's urgent need for world-class, resilient infrastructure. This deal signals to the global market that the Philippines is a prime destination for strategic infrastructure investments, promising not only financial returns but also tangible national development.
