Spanish Companies Present Investment Plans to BOI
The Board of Investments (BOI) hosted a significant meeting with Spanish investors on October 3, 2025, where three prominent companies expressed strong interest in bringing their maritime and renewable energy expertise to the Philippines. The meeting was led by Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo at the BOI main office in Makati City.
The Spanish delegation included representatives from GEOMYTSA, PROES Consultores, and AISTER Aluminium Shipyard, who presented their specialized capabilities in marine infrastructure, renewable energy, and defense-grade vessels. Also present were legal representatives from EMSAVVIL Law and Avco Legal, along with several BOI executives including executive directors Corieh Dichosa, Benedict M. Uy, and Bobby Fondevilla.
Strategic Investment Opportunities Highlighted
During the productive session, the BOI emphasized several key initiatives designed to attract foreign investments. Fiscal incentives and the "Green Lane" initiative under Executive Order 18 were presented as crucial mechanisms to expedite permits and licenses, particularly for renewable energy and infrastructure projects.
The BOI also discussed the Self-Reliance Defense Posture (SRDP) Act and its potential to make Spanish defense-related investments eligible for additional incentives. Specific opportunities highlighted included:
- Rehabilitation of existing shipyards
- Development of naval bases and offshore wind port facilities
- Creation of subsea cable landing areas
- Container port facility expansion
Spanish Expertise and Technology Transfer
The three Spanish companies bring substantial technical capabilities to the table. GEOMYTSA, based in Madrid, specializes in marine and terrestrial geophysical surveying using advanced equipment like echosounders, multibeam sonar, and magnetometers. Their services include seabed exploration, environmental monitoring, and petroleum prospecting.
PROES Consultores, part of Spain's Amper Group, brings over 50 years of international engineering experience with a €21 million project portfolio. The company promotes innovation in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and sustainable mobility, with expertise in maritime infrastructure including ports, terminals, and breakwaters.
AISTER Aluminium Shipyard stands out as a global leader in aluminum professional vessels, having supplied patrol, passenger, and search-and-rescue boats to over 30 countries. The company made history by developing the HS60 High-Speed Interceptor, recognized as the world's fastest waterjet boat capable of exceeding 60 knots.
The BOI assured full support in connecting these Spanish companies with relevant local stakeholders, particularly in strategic industries aligned with the Philippines' priorities for maritime infrastructure development and defense modernization. This collaboration promises significant benefits including technology transfer, job creation, and enhanced maritime security for the Philippines.
