SINGAPORE – President Ferdinand Marcos, in a bilateral meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, bared his administration’s goal of developing the New Clark City as an industrial center with various facilities such as manufacturing, semiconductor assembly, businesses, and green minerals processing.
In the meeting, the two leaders agreed to explore new partnerships to adapt to the changing world, even as the President said he is looking forward to continuing such strong ties with the Southeast Asian neighbor.
Marcos pointed out that Singapore is one of the top sources of foreign direct investments (FDI) in the Philippines.
For his part, the Singapore leader mentioned that New Clark City, which is a part of the Luzon corridor, is gaining recognition among Singaporean investors.
He said there is a “strong positive momentum” in the relationship between the two countries.
“So, many different projects are taking place, including in New Clark City and others, and I’m sure there are interests amongst investors and businesses to invest in your country,” Wong told the President.
Earlier, President Marcos called on the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), led by President Joshua “Jake” Bingcang, to ensure the completion of the New Clark City Access Road, which is seen to enhance connectivity across Luzon.
“We have really laid down for the last [five] years [the] formal and official relationship but as in all other ASEAN member — for Asian countries in general and I think that is why [it’s] easy for us to work together to make partnership,” Marcos added.
He also pointed out that there is great potential in the two countries’ tourism industries, which could further be boosted by much-improved infrastructure and enhanced air linkages.
Wong also mentioned the good people-to-people exchanges, with over 200,000 Filipinos working and staying in Singapore.
Wong made a commitment to protect and ensure the health and well-being of the Filipino workers, recognizing their contributions to the Singapore economy.
