By Erika Mae P. Sinaking, A reporter
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Wednesday he said he would improve the investment process and make regulations more predictable, assuring South Korean businessmen of upcoming changes designed to lower the cost of doing business and boost the Philippines’ competitiveness.
Speaking at the Philippines-Korea Business Forum 2026 in Pasay City, Mr. Marcos emphasized the signing of important agreements between Philippine and South Korean firms involved in shipbuilding, energy, and aerospace.
The forum was called during the official visit of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
Mr. Marcos said the government is breaking down systemic barriers to attract high-impact foreign direct investment, especially from strategic partners like South Korea.
“This administration continues to commit to meaningful change. We are removing barriers, lowering the cost of doing business, and increasing our global competitiveness,” said Mr. Marcos during a live business forum.
He cited the Create More Act as an opening for big investments, noting that the law supports eligible projects that invest at least P50 billion or create at least 10,000 jobs.
Mr. Marcos also cited the Stock Market Performance Promotion Act, which lowered the stock transaction tax from 0.6% to 0.1% to make equity investments more accessible.
He added that the amendments to the Foreign Investment Act and the Trade Liberalization Act have signsfilower the minimum requirement for start-ups and foreign sellers, with the latter reduced from $2.5 million to P25 million to promote healthy competition.
“These measures constitute a joint strategy to create a dynamic, inclusive and resilient economy,” said Mr. Marcos, noting that Executive Order No. 18 also established “green lanes” for the preparation of permits and approvals for strategic projects, which have great influence.
The forum was marked by the signing of cooperation agreements and agreements covering shipbuilding, nuclear power, aviation, precious minerals, supply chain, and health and wellness. These agreements are expected to develop into partnerships that will create infrastructure projects and employment, according to Mr. Marcos.
On his part, Mr. Lee said the Philippines is an important partner in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region. He said the three important indicators of bilateral cooperation in the future are production stability, energy sustainability, and infrastructure development.
“Based on these complementary industrial structures, our two countries can build greater cooperation,” said Mr. Lee.
He said that although the Philippines has important minerals such as nickel and cobalt, South Korea provides advanced manufacturing technology for semiconductors and electronics. He also emphasized the importance of moving to “manufacturing AI” to increase productivity and build next-generation industrial models.
Energy is also a focal point, with Mr Lee noting the Philippines’ intention to launch commercial nuclear power by 2032.
“By combining Korea’s advanced nuclear technology with powerful clean energy through these efforts, our two countries can build a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system together,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jin Roy Ryu, chairman of the Federation of Korean Industries, said that Korean companies are the second largest investors in the Philippines and are “pursuing their own Filipino dreams.”
“The Philippines has an exceptional workforce and an important position as an import hub within the ASEAN region. Korea, on the other hand, has world-class capabilities in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing,” Mr. Ryu in his speech.
He expressed confidence that South Korea can serve as a suitable partner in major infrastructure projects, including railways and ports, using its technological expertise.
