PH secures PHP 51B in Japanese green, digital investments

The Philippines has secured PHP 51 billion in fresh investments and project expansions from leading Japanese conglomerates, signaling a strong vote of confidence in the country’s green, digital, and high-value sectors.

Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque announced the investment pledges Friday during the Philippine Economic Briefing held in Osaka, Japan.

“These commitments in green energy, smart housing, healthcare, and creative services highlight the strength of our partnership with Japan,” Roque said.

The pledges were finalized through high-level meetings in Tokyo organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) team in Japan, led by Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay.

Roque noted that the discussions enabled the country’s economic team — led by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and joined by NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, DOE Secretary Sharon Garin, and BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Abenoja — to jointly review the projects and align support.

“DTI and the Economic Team will work together to ensure these projects generate quality jobs, strengthen supply chains, and advance the country’s shift to a green, digital, and broad-based economy,” Roque added.

Koshidaka Holdings Co., Ltd., operator of the world’s largest karaoke chain, pledged PHP 34 billion to open 300 outlets across the Philippines over the next decade.

The expansion is expected to create more than 1,500 direct jobs and support thousands more through construction and supply-chain opportunities.

Marubeni Corporation committed PHP 15 billion for projects in real estate, fintech, healthcare, and afforestation, further diversifying its footprint in the Philippine economy.

Sojitz Corporation confirmed a PHP 2 billion to PHP 3 billion investment into a local property developer aiming to attract AI, semiconductor design, software, and healthcare firms.

Sojitz also expressed interest in aviation-related projects, hinting at potential new areas of strategic cooperation.

Mitsui & Co. reaffirmed its partnership with Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Steel Asia for a steel recycling initiative aligned with circular economy and decarbonization goals.

“These investments are a testament to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for an agile, innovation-driven economy that welcomes partnerships and delivers inclusive growth,” Roque said.

Special Trade Representative Angara-Mathay emphasized that the presence of top-level government officials reassured Japanese investors of the Philippines’ commitment.

“Their collective participation assured investors of high-level government commitment and seamless coordination — giving confidence that these projects will be fast-tracked from commitment to execution,” she said.