HOUSE leaders hailed the more than $1 billion in investment commitments from the first-ever United States presidential trade and investment mission to the Philippines as a vote of trust and confidence in the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.

During Tuesday’s press conference at the House of Representatives, they noted that the investment pledges from American companies joining the trade mission organized by U.S. President Joe Biden serve as solid proof that President Marcos’ efforts to attract foreign investors during his trips abroad are yielding results.

These efforts, they said, will gain momentum if the country opens up the economy to more foreign investments by amending the restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. commended President Marcos for his remarkable ability to attract foreign investment to the Philippines.

“Our president is like the best salesman of our country,” Gonzales said, emphasizing that President Marcos consistently puts in the effort whether it’s a state visit, an official visit, or any opportunity where he engages investors worldwide.

Gonzales is optimistic that if Congress succeeds in removing constitutional barriers and warmly welcomes foreign investors, the President will be able to attract even more foreign investments.

“That’s why I believe that if we open up these economic provisions, a lot of investors will truly consider investing in our country,” Gonzales said.

Deputy Majority Leader and PBA Partylist Rep. Margarita “Atty. Migs” Nograles pointed out that the growing interest of foreign investors in the Philippines was a result of successful state visits by the President, which are now yielding positive results.

“The fact that they (foreign investors) want to invest is actually such a good feat na for us. Nakikita natin may bunga itong state visits na ginagawa ni Presidente. Nakikita nila ‘yun, nag-o-open up tayo, nakikita ‘yung capacity natin, capabilities natin and that we are worth investing,” Nograles said.

According to Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, the investment pledges from American companies signify a growing trust in both the governance of the Philippines and its foreign policy architect, President Marcos.

Adiong noted that since assuming office, President Marcos has made unity a cornerstone of his administration’s approach, aiming to strengthen relationships both domestically and internationally.

This strategic vision, he said, not only enhances the Philippines’ standing on the global stage but also creates an environment conducive to foreign investment.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Ryan Ponce Pacpaco