Positioning the Philippines as a premier investment hub

Foreign investments are critical in shaping the economic trajectory of a country. For one, they bring in new capital to fund projects such as infrastructure, which are needed for long-term economic growth and development.

These investments also play a crucial role in creating jobs and employment opportunities, facilitating technology transfer, and enabling a country to have greater access to global markets, thereby integrating it further into the global economy.

In the 2023 World Competitiveness Ranking by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), international business executives identified several factors that contribute to the attractiveness of competitive economies. The Philippines was recognized for its skilled workforce, characterized by open and positive attitudes, as well as the dynamism of its economy, all of which boost its appeal to foreign investors.

Indeed, the Philippines has many inherent strengths that can be leveraged to attract more foreign investments.

First is its strategic location, which influences its access to regional markets, trade routes, and global supply chains. The Philippines' position at the crossroads of Southeast Asia establishes it as a vital gateway to the broader Asia-Pacific region, making it an appealing hub for trade, logistics and regional operations.

Interestingly, its proximity to major global shipping routes and key markets like Japan and ASEAN countries, combined with its accessibility, further strengthens its attractiveness to multinational companies. Moreover, its distance from mainland Asia offers a degree of protection from challenges within the mainland.

Second, the Philippines has a young and skilled workforce. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the median age of the population is approximately 25 years, giving the country a favorable demographic profile.

This is especially advantageous as other Asian nations experience rapid aging of their populations. With a young median age, the country features a dynamic, adaptable, and eager-to-learn working generation.

Moreover, English being one of the official languages of the Philippines offers a significant advantage in forging