Marcos confident PH, Singapore to continue 'healthy' bilateral ties

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 15) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that the Philippines and Singapore would keep their "healthy" relations as he noted there were no "significant issues" between the two nations.

During a meeting with business leaders and economic managers in Singapore, Marcos said people-to-people exchange has been the "bedrock" of the neighboring countries in establishing alliances.

"In that time between the very beginning of that relationship, we haven't come across really any significant issues, diplomatic, political, or otherwise between Singapore and the Philippines," the Palace said in a statement Thursday, quoting Marcos.

"Many of our most professional workforce have actually come to live and work in Singapore. I know many, many, many people, especially in the financial sector who have made their lives here in Singapore and continue to do so," he added.

The president even said Singapore was the "largest source of foreign investments" for the country.

He then solicited investments from Singaporeans, urging them to explore opportunities in the local renewable energy (RE) market, especially now that the government has allowed foreign investors to enjoy 100% ownership in RE projects.

"The policy change comes as the Philippines seeks to attract foreign investments to boost the renewable energy sector and to meet our long-term climate targets," Marcos said.

"With this development, I encourage our Singapore partners to consider the Philippines and take part in the country's goal of increasing renewable share in power generation and offering lower cost and cleaner energy to the general public," he added.