MANILA — The Philippine government expressed its strong commitment to strengthen business ties with Brunei Darussalam and foster economic growth within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday
In his speech before the Philippine Business Forum in Brunei, President Marcos reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Philippines to regional economic integration on multiple fronts, citing the remarkable success story of Filipino chain of fastfood restaurant Jollibee in Brunei.
President Marcos said Jollibee’s 19 Halal-certified outlets reflect Brunei’s appreciation for Filipino brands.
“I am delighted to share the positive developments from the Philippines and to discuss how we can advance and strengthen our collaboration with Brunei, leveraging the benefits of our partnership through ASEAN, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement or RCEP, and the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, BIMP-EAGA, for a prosperous shared future,” he said.
The President said the Philippines sees vast potential in sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy and Halal industry development.
“And through this forum, we stand firm in strengthening the business relations between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam. Our partnership is a symbol of the shared aspiration to foster economic growth and shape a more vibrant ASEAN community,” he added.
President Marcos said the trade and investment policy framework of the Philippines, which was established through the ASEAN and RCEP is fundamental to the country’s agenda for regional economic integration.
He remains optimistic that the government’s efforts “will be further supported by additional policy measures designed to strengthen” the supply chain integration in the Philippines, boosting foreign direct investment.
The chief executive attended the Philippine Business Forum in Brunei as part of the government’s efforts to showcase the Philippine economy’s strength and facilitate trade and investment partnerships focused on agribusiness, renewable energy, halal development, and opportunities in the BIMP-EAGA region.
The forum is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Brunei Economy Program with the support of the Philippine Embassy in Brunei. (PND)
