The Manila Times
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong and enduring relationship with Vietnam as he encouraged Vietnamese businesses to pour more capital in the country. Marcos made the call during the Vietnam–Philippines Business Forum which coincided with Vietnamese President Tô Lâm’s state visit. Addressing government officials and business leaders from both nations, the chief highlighted the historic roots of both countries’ relations, noting that diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Vietnam were formally established 50 years ago during the administration of his father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. “This year carries a special significance. The Philippines and Vietnam are celebrating a Golden Jubilee—50 years of diplomatic relations,” Marcos said. “The ties between our countries were formally established during the presidency of my father, President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. It was likewise through the efforts of my mother, then First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, that the foundations for peace, understanding, and cooperation between our two nations were first laid,” he added. He underscored his administration’s commitment to deepening trade and investment ties with Vietnam while implementing reforms aimed at making the Philippines more competitive and attractive to foreign investors. Among the key initiatives cited were the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act, the amended Foreign Investments Act, the amended Retail Trade Liberalization Act, and the Green Lanes for Strategic Investments program. “Our message to the region is clear: The Philippines is positioning itself as a premier destination for smart, sustainable manufacturing and high-value services. We are open to partnership, ready for investment, and eager to work with you in creating new opportunities for growth,” Marcos said. He also recognized Vietnam as a vital partner in advancing stronger economic cooperation, building more resilient supply chains, promoting digital innovation, and fostering deeper integration within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). Vietnam ranked as the Philippines’ 11th-largest trading partner in 2025, with total bilateral trade reaching US$7.17 billion. Apart from Lâm, also in attendance at forum were senior Filipino and Vietnamese government officials and members of the business community seeking to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, and economic collaboration.
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