Seoul, 27 August 2026 – The Philippine Embassy and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC)-Seoul convened the Philippines–Korea Business Forum at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, bringing together more than 40 representatives of Korean companies and business organizations. The forum presented investment opportunities and practical guidance on incentives, taxation, financing and regulatory requirements in the Philippines.

Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez said the Philippines–ROK Free Trade Agreement provides a stronger foundation for trade, investment and industrial cooperation. She invited Korean companies to combine their capital and technology with the Philippines’ young, skilled and English-speaking workforce. Philippine economic zones, she noted, offer Korean firms a competitive platform to diversify production, address labor constraints and expand across ASEAN and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga identified high-value manufacturing, semiconductors, shipbuilding, tourism, infrastructure and green technologies as promising areas for Korean investment. Nearly 200 Korean companies already operate in PEZA economic zones, directly employing approximately 44,000 Filipinos. He highlighted the Philippines’ talent pool, established supply chains, global connectivity and enhanced incentives under the CREATE MORE Act.

Experts from BDO Unibank, Asian Consulting Group, the Industrial Bank of Korea and Aboitiz Economic Estates briefed participants on the Philippine economy, tax reforms, banking and financing, overseas investment requirements and strategies for managing manufacturing risks. PTIC-Seoul Commercial Attaché Charmaine Mignon S. Yalong moderated the forum, which formed part of the Philippine Investment Mission to the ROK held from 24 to 28 August 2026. END