SAN FRANCISCO – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. embarks on a visit to the United States starting November 14, attending the 30th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco. The President aims to strengthen bilateral relations among the Philippines and fellow member-countries in the region while extending invitations to potential investors to contribute to the betterment of Filipino lives.
In his pre-departure message, President Marcos highlighted the significance of his third visit to the US, emphasizing its role in reinforcing already robust ties. The invitation came from President Joseph R. Biden to participate in the leaders’ meeting and associated events, a pivotal platform for trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
“This trip marks my third visit to the United States as part of our continuing efforts to further reinforce our already strong bond, and a follow through to my Official Working Visit in Washington, D.C. last May, where we underscored the need for forging closer economic ties and ensuring that our bilateral friendship and relationship work for both our peoples,” expressed the President.
Aligning with the theme “Creating A Sustainable and Resilient Future for All,” President Marcos sees the APEC summit as an opportunity to propel the Philippines toward a sustainable future, uplifting the lives of its citizens.
“I bring with me your hopes and aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous Asia-Pacific region where we live,” President Marcos said.
He added, “Our APEC work has been focused to prioritize and secure beneficial trade and investment, quality and green jobs, human development, and poverty alleviation.”
On the sidelines of the APEC Summit, President Marcos plans to engage with economic leaders to explore strategies for achieving food and energy security, promoting economic inclusion for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women, indigenous people, and other sectors.
The President will also meet with business leaders for roundtable discussions, inviting investments, seeking business opportunities, promoting Philippine exports, and discussing the country’s economic agenda.
President Marcos is invited to deliver keynote remarks on “intentional equity in sustainability” at the APEC CEO Summit. He will share the Philippine experience in ensuring inclusivity on the path towards a greener economy.
Additionally, private sector representatives from the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) will engage with the President to discuss the utilization of public-private partnerships in fulfilling innovative and sustainable development agendas, financing, and economic and business reforms.
“As with my previous visits, I expect to meet with American business leaders to further promote trade and investment opportunities here in the Philippines. Our economic team and I will be joined by a high-profile business delegation in exploring new and expanding partnerships,” President Marcos stated.
The visit will conclude with President Marcos reaching out to the Filipino community in Los Angeles, California, and Honolulu, Hawaii, which collectively houses nearly half of the 4.2 million Filipinos in the US. This engagement is part of the administration’s commitment to “not leaving anyone behind” and achieving a resilient Philippines where the rewards of everyone’s hard work “are equitably shared by all.” (Presidential News Desk)
