The Stratbase Group sponsored and hosted a parallel session at the Philippine Economic Society’s 63rd Annual Meeting and Conference entitled “Positioning the Philippines as a Leading Investment Destination in Southeast Asia.” The session was held at Makati Shangri-La Hotel, Makati City. 

Stratbase Group COO Mr. RP Manhit opened the forum by talking about the geostrategic location of the Philippines. He underscored the importance of leveraging the opportunities and advantages the Philippines has to create better job opportunities for the Filipino people. 

Board of Investments Director Lanie Dormiendo presented the published report Foreign Investments Promotion and Marketing Plan (FIPMP). Foreign direct investment is a powerful driver of economic and social transformation in developing countries, but its success depends on strong human capital, robust infrastructure, stable governance, and a supportive policy environment. The Philippines, with its strategic Indo-Pacific location, abundant natural resources, young workforce, and pro-investment reforms, is well-positioned as a key investment destination in Southeast Asia. 

Philippine Economic Zone Authority Deputy Director General Anidelle Joy Alguso provided an overview of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s (PEZA) strategic role and initiatives to elevate the Philippines as a premier investment destination in Southeast Asia. She highlighted PEZA’s globally recognized “no red tape, only red-carpet treatment” brand of service, complemented with its ongoing digitalization and sustainability efforts all aimed at streamlining the ease of doing business and to future-proof investments. 

In a fireside chat moderated by Stratbase Group Chief of Staff Ms. Dana Dinsay, Mr. Ferdinand “Perry” Ferrer (Executive Vice President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry), Mr. Rafael “Apa” Ongpin (Executive Director, Makati Business Club), and Mr. Bobby Batungbacal (Director, Federation of Philippine Industries) spoke about the importance of improving the ease of doing business in the country as well as the inherent strengths of the Philippines which can help the country better compete in the global market. 

This session examined high-potential sectors, discuss ways to strengthen the Philippines’ position as a resilient and competitive investment hub, and highlight policy reforms needed to unlock opportunities for both public and private stakeholders.