House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez said Saturday he is optimistic that the 6th Indo-Pacific Business Forum (IPBF) in Manila this year would draw a surge of foreign investments into the country, which could lead to more jobs and livelihood opportunities for Filipinos.

The 6th IPBF, to be held in Manila on May 21, is expected to bring together about 500 business leaders, project developers, government officials, and financing sources to discuss issues related to infrastructure, supply chain resilience, critical minerals, clean energy, the digital economy, emerging technologies, and inclusive trade.

In a press statement, Romualdez said the forum would serve as a springboard for increased investment inflows into the country.

“By bringing together key stakeholders to discuss critical issues and explore collaboration opportunities, we aim to propel the country’s economic growth and development to new heights, creating more jobs and livelihood opportunities for our people,” he said.

The forum will not only highlight the Philippines’ growing prominence as a hub for business investment but will also strengthen ties with international partners.

The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the Philippine government will co-host the 6th IPBF in Manila in partnership with the US Department of State.

In his keynote address at the Philippine-US Business Forum in Washington DC on Friday afternoon (US time), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. invited top US business leaders to participate in the event.

The IPBF is the premier public-private US government event to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the United States and its partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

This year’s IPBF will build upon the success of the previous five forums that have brought together more than 8,500 participants from 67 countries. (PNA)