Makati: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the Philippines is expanding economic ties with 'non-traditional suppliers' and 'non-traditional investors' as part of efforts to strengthen stability and resilience amid global volatility. Speaking at the ASEAN Editors and Economic Opinion Leaders Forum in Makati, Marcos stressed the importance of moving beyond reliance on traditional or established markets.

According to Philippines News Agency, the President emphasized the need to engage with countries that have not been traditional partners, sometimes due to physical distance. Marcos highlighted increased engagement with the European Union, both as a trading bloc and through bilateral talks with individual member-states. He also pointed out that Latin America presents 'a great opportunity' for the Philippines, describing the nation as the only Latin country in Asia, which he sees as beneficial.

Marcos noted that Canada has become one of the Philippines' strongest partners, and expressed his belief that France will soon be among the strongest as well. He stated that these are non-traditional partners in terms of trade, emphasizing the need to engage with them. The diversification of partnerships is part of a broader strategy to provide stability in a global environment marked by geopolitical upheavals and economic shocks.

The President underscored the importance of stability, referencing lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical tensions. He highlighted that investors seek 'stability and vision,' and that the Philippines is working to become a more investor-friendly and attractive country. These efforts are part of the structural changes his administration is pursuing to make governance more responsive and agile amid global uncertainties.