Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Singaporean investors and telecommunications executives to discuss initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare services and digital infrastructure.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos held discussions with executives from ABC Impact and the Temasek Trust ecosystem, along with representatives from the Ayala Group, to explore strategic investments in the Philippines' healthcare sector. ABC Impact reaffirmed its commitment to support the expansion of AC Health, following its investment in the company, which gives it a 16-percent minority stake.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated that the partnership with the Ayala Group aims to provide high-quality and affordable healthcare to Filipinos by accelerating the expansion of hospitals, multi-specialty clinics, retail pharmacies, and other healthcare services nationwide. This initiative is expected to increase access to quality medical care across more communities in the Philippines.
Attracting high-impact investments that directly benefit Filipinos remains a key priority of the Marcos administration. The PCO noted that the expansion of AC's operations is anticipated to create thousands of healthcare and retail jobs while contributing to a more integrated, accessible, and resilient healthcare system that delivers better health outcomes.
AC Health, the healthcare arm of Ayala Corporation, has secured a strategic investment from ABC Impact, marking the investor's first direct entry into the Philippine healthcare sector. By 2027, AC Health plans to expand its network to at least 10 hospitals, 300 clinics, and 1,150 pharmacies.
In a separate meeting, Marcos engaged with Singapore telecommunications firm Singtel to discuss expanding investments in the Philippines' digital infrastructure and supporting the growing digital economy. Singtel reaffirmed its commitment to expand its investments and operations in the country, building on its partnership with Globe Telecom and the growth of NCS Philippines, a joint venture with Globe's Yondu.
The PCO highlighted the development of ST Telemedia Global Data Centres in Quezon City and Cavite, which is expected to enhance the country's digital infrastructure and reinforce its position as a regional data hub. The meeting emphasized Singtel's confidence in the Philippine market, highlighting that digital partnerships could contribute to a more robust Philippine economy.
Promoting sustained investments in digital infrastructure is anticipated to strengthen the country's connectivity, generate high-value employment, and support long-term economic growth.
