Amsterdam, 27 January 2025 – The Philippine government and ING convened over 40 Dutch business leaders and executives at the Philippine Business Dialogue co-organized by Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Brussels (PTIC-Brussels) and ING. Held at ING’s headquarters in Amsterdam, the event served as a platform to showcase the Philippines’ robust economic performance, investment opportunities, and the country’s growing trade and financial ties with the Netherlands, a consistent top source of foreign direct investment in the Philippines.
ING CEO Steven van Rijswijk welcomed the attendees, emphasizing ING’s longstanding presence in the Philippines, where it operates a 6,000-seat global shared services hub. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to facilitating more FDI into the country, recognizing its strategic position in Asia and its business-friendly policies.
The dialogue featured insightful discussions led by key Philippine government officials. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo provided a comprehensive update on the country’s economic trajectory and investment landscape, highlighting opportunities for Dutch businesses. Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary and Chief Economist Domini Velasquez shared fiscal updates, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability and fostering a conducive investment climate.
The discussions continued with a panel session featuring Undersecretary Maria Luwalhati Dorotan-Tiuseco and Monetary Board Member Rosalia de Leon, who provided insights into financial policies and sectoral investment opportunities. The panel, moderated by Mr. Jun Palanca, Managing Director of ING Philippines, also featured Mr. Victor Abad, Global Head of ING’s International Network, reiterated ING’s readiness to further collaborate with the Philippine government and private sector in driving more strategic investments.
Ambassador of the Philippines to the Netherlands, H.E. J. Eduardo Malaya III, and Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Philippines, H.E. Marielle Geraedts, delivered remarks reinforcing the strong trade and investment ties between the two nations. DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque also addressed the participants in a video message, underscoring the Philippine government’s proactive efforts in fostering a competitive and innovative business environment.
As the Philippines continues to strengthen its position as a key investment destination in Asia, the Philippine Business Dialogue with ING provided a timely opportunity to engage with European stakeholders and advance economic partnerships that will drive growth and innovation. ♦
Date of Release: 03 February 2025