Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ramped up efforts to promote investments, strengthen infrastructure, and advance the government's anti-poverty agenda through a series of engagements this week. His activities also included meetings with foreign investors, business leaders, foreign diplomats, government officials, and local communities. His week-long engagements underscored the administration's focus on economic growth, job creation, and stronger international partnerships.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos began the week by inspecting the Marikina River Linear Park and the Marikina Centralized Materials Recovery Facility in Barangay Sto. Ni±o, Marikina City. This visit emphasized the government's efforts to improve public infrastructure, enhance environmental management, and build resilient communities. Following this, he visited Batangas to engage with the Lipa-Malvar Estate and the Batangas State University - LIMA Campus, underscoring the importance of aligning education and skills development with industry needs.
On Tuesday, Marcos administered the oath of office to former senator Emmanuel 'Manny' Pacquiao as Secretary and Lead Convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) at Malaca±an Palace in Manila. Pacquiao's appointment signifies the administration's continued commitment to addressing poverty, advancing social reform, and improving programs for disadvantaged and marginalized sectors.
Meanwhile, the President received the credentials of Norwegian Ambassador Kristian Netland and South Korean Ambassador Lee Dong-gy in separate ceremonies at Malaca±an. He expressed optimism about exploring new areas of cooperation with both countries, particularly in trade, investment, maritime industries, digital technology, shipbuilding, education, and regional security.
On Wednesday, Marcos met with the Private Sector Advisory Council's (PSAC) Infrastructure Sector Group at Malaca±an to bolster public-private cooperation in infrastructure development. Discussions centered on making infrastructure safer and more resilient to protect communities from disasters and climate-related risks. Furthermore, he attended the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Investment Forum at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City to promote the Philippines as a strategic destination for long-term investments.
On Friday, Marcos traveled to Batac City, Ilocos Norte, to lead activities marking the 109th birth anniversary of his father, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. He participated in cultural and community events, reflecting on the lessons he learned from his father, particularly the importance of public service and national interest.
The week concluded with Marcos' departure for New Delhi, India, to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit as ASEAN chair. His participation aims to advance Philippine and ASEAN interests in trade, regional security, and other key areas. Through these engagements, Marcos continues to prioritize economic growth, investment generation, infrastructure development, and inclusive opportunities as key pillars of his administration's development agenda.
