President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. concluded a four-day state visit to Japan on Friday, May 29, 2026, securing approximately US$3.4 billion in investment commitments. The visit deepened security cooperation and elevated bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while both nations celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties.
Productive and Beneficial Visit
Marcos described his trip as “very productive and beneficial.” He stated that the agreements and discussions held in Tokyo would support the Philippines’ aspiration to become a regional hub for high-tech industries, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.
Japanese Investment Interests
According to Marcos, Japanese companies have shown strong interest in expanding their investments in sectors such as semiconductors, advanced electronics, automotive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, battery production, renewable energy, and shipbuilding.
Major investment commitments announced during the visit include expansion plans by Japanese firms in the semiconductor, precision manufacturing, and shipbuilding industries, valued at approximately PHP 56.3 billion. These projects are expected to generate employment for over 10,000 Filipinos.
Reviving Shipbuilding Industry
Marcos emphasized the role of shipbuilder Tsuneishi Group in helping revive the country’s shipbuilding industry. He expressed that these investments could restore the Philippines’ position among the world’s top shipbuilding nations.
“These engagements reaffirmed strong confidence in the Philippine economy and opened new opportunities for investments that will benefit our people,” Marcos said.
Elevated Partnership
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the agreement between Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to upgrade the Philippines-Japan relationship from a Strengthened Strategic Partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
