PH Showcases Cebu as Investment Gateway

The Philippines highlighted Cebu as a strategic gateway for foreign investments during the Moscow–Cebu Business Forum, showcasing the province’s dynamic economy, world-class connectivity, and expanding investment opportunities as part of the country’s broader campaign to attract high-value international investors.

Held under the “Days of Moscow in Cebu” initiative and in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and the Russian Federation, the forum brought together government officials, business leaders, investors, and development partners to explore new avenues for trade, investment, tourism, innovation, and economic cooperation between Moscow and Cebu.

The event underscored the growing importance of Cebu as one of the Philippines’ leading investment destinations, serving as a gateway to the country’s fast-growing consumer market, skilled workforce, and expanding industrial base.

Representing the Board of Investments (BOI) Cebu Extension Office, Ms. Floreza D. Alpuerto delivered a presentation on “Doing Business in the Philippines,” providing Russian business representatives and prospective investors with an overview of the country’s investment landscape and the government’s continuing efforts to foster a competitive and business-friendly environment.

“Cebu serves as a strategic gateway to the Philippine market, offering access to a skilled workforce, expanding industries, and robust logistics connectivity. At the Board of Investments, we are committed to helping foreign investors navigate entry options, secure investment approvals, and maximize incentives under the CREATE Act to ensure a rewarding investment experience,” Alpuerto said.

Her presentation covered the country’s investment policies, business-enabling reforms, market entry options for foreign investors, priority investment sectors, investment approval processes, and fiscal incentives available under the CREATE Act.

Alpuerto also emphasized the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to strengthen its investment climate through policy reforms, streamlined government procedures, and targeted incentives aimed at attracting strategic and high-value investments.

The forum highlighted the Philippines’ openness to international partnerships, particularly in sectors identified as priorities for economic growth and long-term development. It likewise underscored the role of government investment promotion agencies in facilitating investments and assisting foreign enterprises seeking to establish or expand their presence in the country.

The Moscow–Cebu Business Forum also served as a platform for forging new business partnerships and strengthening bilateral economic relations. Participants included representatives from the Government of Moscow, the Department for External Economic and International Relations of Moscow, the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in the Philippines, the Province of Cebu, the Cebu City Government, the City Government of Mandaue, and various local business chambers and industry stakeholders.

Through initiatives such as the Moscow–Cebu Business Forum, the Philippines continues to promote Cebu as a key investment destination while advancing regional development and creating greater opportunities for sustainable economic growth nationwide.