Manila: Energy-related projects led the Board of Investments (BOI) approvals in 2025, with total investments exceeding PHP1.5 trillion for the second consecutive year. Data released by the BOI on Monday indicated that total investments last year reached PHP1.56 trillion, marking the second-highest figure following the record-high PHP1.62 trillion in 2024, though it fell short of the agency's PHP1.75 trillion target.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 322 approved projects in 2025 are projected to create approximately 40,000 jobs across the nation. Energy sector projects topped the list, accounting for PHP970.09 billion, and highlighting ongoing momentum in power generation and related infrastructure projects. Mass housing followed with PHP241.65 billion, then transportation and storage at PHP230.06 billion, manufacturing at PHP62.16 billion, and information and communication at PHP26.56 billion.
Local investments dominated with PHP1.41 trillion, while foreign investments amounted to PHP149.45 billion. The majority of local investments were located in the National Capital Region with PHP383.71 billion, followed by the Cordillera Administrative Region with PHP373.39 billion, Calabarzon with PHP257.83 billion, Bicol Region with PHP123.61 billion, and Central Luzon with PHP105.13 billion.
Among foreign investors, Singapore led with PHP80.37 billion, followed by The Netherlands with PHP33.29 billion, Thailand with PHP7.75 billion, the United States with PHP6.91 billion, and Switzerland with PHP4.33 billion. Despite the lower approvals in 2025, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized that surpassing the PHP1.5 trillion mark underscores the Philippines' increasing competitiveness and the sustained trust of both local and foreign investors.
Roque remarked that these investments are crucial for building a resilient, innovation-driven economy focused on sustainability and inclusive growth. She noted that several large-scale strategic projects are in the pipeline but require more time for evaluation. She stressed that the focus moving forward is to ensure these investments result in quality jobs, technology transfer, and sustainable economic growth benefiting Filipinos nationwide.
