MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spent the week advancing key domestic development programs while strengthening international economic partnerships, reflecting the administration's strategy of combining infrastructure expansion, public service improvements, and foreign investment promotion to drive long-term national growth.

From inaugurating major infrastructure projects and renewable energy facilities to engaging global investors in Singapore, the President's activities highlighted the government's focus on building a more competitive, resilient, and investment-friendly Philippines.

Strengthening Regional Development

President Marcos began the week in the island province of Camiguin, where he inspected major infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and stimulating local economic development.

Among the projects visited was the PHP171.3-million Port Operations Building at the Port of Benoni in Mahinog, a key transportation hub serving residents, tourists, and businesses across neighboring islands.

He also inaugurated the PHP86.9-million Benoni Port Light Craft Landing Station, a facility expected to improve maritime accessibility, strengthen logistics, and support the province's tourism, agriculture, and fisheries sectors.

Expanding Government Services

The President also launched the "Bawat Bayan Makikinabang: Camiguin" program, reinforcing the administration's commitment to delivering government services directly to local communities and promoting inclusive regional development.

His visit included an inspection of the Camiguin General Hospital, where he emphasized the importance of strengthening healthcare facilities and improving access to quality medical services for Filipinos.

Accelerating Agricultural and Sports Infrastructure

Continuing his development agenda, Marcos directed the acceleration of the PHP20.54-billion Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project Phase II in San Jose, Tarlac.

The large-scale irrigation project is expected to enhance water management systems and significantly boost agricultural productivity across Central Luzon.

In nearby Capas, Tarlac, the President also inspected the world-class facilities of the National Academy of Sports at the New Clark City Sports Complex, reaffirming government support for developing future Filipino athletes through modern training facilities and quality education.

He met with student-athletes and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence while representing the country in international competitions.

Advancing Renewable Energy

President Marcos later traveled to Nueva Ecija, accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, to inaugurate Terra Solar Phase I, recognized as the world's largest integrated solar and battery energy storage facility.

The project marks a significant milestone in the country's transition toward renewable energy and energy security while strengthening public-private partnerships in sustainable infrastructure development.

Ensuring Stable Healthcare Leadership

Prior to his departure for Singapore, the President administered the oath of office to Jose Brittanio Pujalte Jr. as Acting Secretary of the Department of Health.

The appointment ensures leadership continuity as the Department of Health pursues reforms and programs aimed at improving healthcare delivery nationwide.

Promoting the Philippines to Global Investors

The latter part of the week saw President Marcos travel to Singapore to strengthen bilateral relations and promote the Philippines as a premier investment destination in Southeast Asia.

Singapore remains one of the country's largest sources of foreign direct investments, making the working visit a key component of the administration's economic diplomacy efforts.

During the visit, President Marcos held a courtesy meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, where both leaders discussed expanding bilateral cooperation, regional economic collaboration, and shared development priorities.

The President also met with executives from Singtel Group, ABC Impact, and other major investors to discuss expansion opportunities and future investments in the Philippines.

He likewise engaged Indo-Pacific investors during a business forum at the Philippine Embassy, presenting the country's ongoing infrastructure programs, economic reforms, and emerging investment opportunities designed to generate employment and stimulate long-term growth.

Marcos also participated in a Milken Institute Roundtable, exchanging perspectives with regional leaders on innovation, economic resilience, and sustainable investment strategies.

Honoring Future Filipino Seafarers

Concluding his week, the President attended the commencement exercises of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) Salighirang Class of 2026 in Zambales.

In his address, Marcos recognized the vital role of Filipino seafarers in the global maritime industry and reaffirmed the government's commitment to investing in maritime education and developing globally competitive Filipino professionals.

Driving Inclusive Growth

The President's weeklong engagements underscored the administration's broader development agenda centered on modern infrastructure, renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, education, sports development, and international investment partnerships.

By balancing domestic priorities with proactive economic diplomacy, the administration continues to position the Philippines for sustained, inclusive, and resilient growth while expanding opportunities for Filipino communities and future generations.

NPO News Team | PNA-PR