Tokyo, Japan—On March 04, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque engaged in high-level discussions with representatives from Fast Retailing Co., Ltd. and Koshidaka Holdings. These meetings strengthen the Philippines’ position as a dynamic and diverse consumer market, particularly in fast fashion, retail, and entertainment.

“The Philippines offers a strategic gateway for global brands to thrive in a dynamic and diverse consumer market, powered by a young, fashion-forward, and highly engaged population. With strong demand for fast fashion, retail, and entertainment, Japanese investors such as Fast Retailing and Koshidaka Holdings can tap into the country’s trend-driven landscape, where brand-conscious consumers prioritize sustainability, value, accessibility, and quality,” Secretary Roque said.

“By attracting prime investments in consumer-diverse sector, the country expands choices for Filipino consumers, drives economic growth, creates jobs, and solidifies its role as a consumer-centric hub in the region,” she added.

Fast Retailing: Strengthening sustainable fashion and supply chain efficiency

During the meeting with Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., the parent company of UNIQLO, Secretary Roque explored opportunities for joint promotion of sustainable fashion through the use of advanced technologies, efficiency in supply chain management and sustainable programs in line with the President’s economic agenda.

Secretary Roque and Fast Retailing representatives discussed leveraging advanced technologies for sustainable fashion practices and improving supply chain efficiency. The Philippines’ potential as a key partner in Fast Retailing’s regional strategy was a central focus.

DTI Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay reported that UNIQLO has identified the Philippines as its fastest-growing market in Southeast Asia, designating it as a pillar of its regional expansion strategy. UNIQLO plans to open flagship stores in major cities and establish neighborhood-type stores, enhancing accessibility and reinforcing brand awareness across the country.     

To ensure seamless operations across the diverse Philippine landscape, UNIQLO requested the DTI’s support in community engagement. Secretary Roque pledged the DTI’s full support and proposed the Philippines as a partner factory for sustainable fashion, building upon UNIQLO’s successful partner factory model program in the region. This partnership will significantly reduce shipping time and costs, improve logistics efficiency, and enhance sustainability through lower carbon emissions.

Secretary Roque also proposed pop-up showcases of sustainable local products in major UNIQLO stores across the Philippines, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Philippine-Japan diplomatic relations.

These potential partnerships will be supported by the government’s recently enacted Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act, which offers incentives to foreign investors establishing manufacturing or assembly operations in the country.

Koshidaka Holdings: Tapping into the PH’s dynamic entertainment market

In a separate meeting, the trade chief met with Koshidaka Holdings in a luncheon meeting organized by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation to discuss the company’s PHP 2.5 billion investment pledge in the Philippines.

Koshidaka Holdings, renowned for its karaoke and bathhouse (hot springs) businesses, presented its Southeast Asia expansion strategy, which includes establishing a fully owned subsidiary, Koshidaka PH, by mid-2025. The company plans to open its first store in Metro Manila by the end of 2025, with plans to expand to 30 locations and eventually to 100 locations nationwide.

Secretary Roque noted that Koshidaka Holdings’ target demographic of young people under 30 years old aligns with the country’s youthful and vibrant consumer market. She added that the Filipinos’ love for karaoke as a form of entertainment and the appeal of bathhouses as a relaxation space make the Philippines an ideal market for the company.

Secretary Roque reaffirmed the DTI’s commitment to bolstering trade and investment ties with Japan, emphasizing its support for leading companies like Koshidaka Holdings. She highlighted DTI’s dedication to fostering a conducive business environment that attracts investors, facilitates market entry, and drives economic growth and innovation.

STR Angara-Mathay highlighted the key factors contributing to the success of Koshidaka Corporation’s Karaoke Manekineko in Japan, including its huge budget-friendly pricing, family-oriented settings, bring their own food policy, and 24/7 availability. She added that CEO and Founder Hiroshi Koshidaka is actively exploring tailored offerings to meet specific preferences of the Philippine consumer market.

DTI boosts diverse consumer industries through strategic partnerships

The engagements with Fast Retailing and Koshidaka Holdings reinforce the Philippines’ position as a strategic destination for investment and expansion in Southeast Asia. These discussions not only highlight the country’s strong consumer market but also open new avenues for supply chain efficiency, retail growth, and entertainment ventures that cater to evolving consumer preferences.

“We continue to bridge opportunities that link Japanese enterprises with the Philippine market. By fostering collaboration and market access, we create pathways for business growth while offering more choices to Filipino consumers,” DTI Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay underscored.

“Bringing in global brands like Fast Retailing and Koshidaka Holdings is more than just expanding our retail and entertainment landscape—it is about enriching the everyday experiences of Filipino consumers. From fashion that fits their dynamic lifestyles to entertainment that resonates with their love for music and leisure, we are creating an environment where quality, innovation, and choice thrive,” Secretary Roque emphasized. ♦

Date of release: 07 March 2025

Tokyo, Japan –– On March 4, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque engaged senior executives of Japan’s biggest industry organizations, Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai, in a dialogue on Philippine-Japan economic relations anchored on mutual economic growth and collective solutions to new challenges brought about by dynamic changes in the global order.

“The Philippines and Japan share a deep-rooted history of cooperation, and our economic partnership is a cornerstone of this relationship. Through our longstanding collaboration with Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai, our two nations are leveraging our complementary strengths to drive mutual growth and prosperity,” Secretary Roque highlighted.

“Together, we are building a future where world-class industries, cutting-edge technology, and top talent converge to propel sustained prosperity for our people and the region,” the trade chief underscored.

Keidanren: Building a free and open economy

Secretary Roque’s discussion with Keidanren centered on the business federation’s flagship event, the Asia Business Summit (ABS), a global platform for business leaders from 12 Asian economies to exchange insights, address shared challenges, and develop a joint statement of recommendations for their respective governments.

A member since its inception in 2010, the Philippines is set to host the highly anticipated 14^th Asia Business Summit in July 2025. Secretary Roque underlined this as a unique opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ open, innovative, and sustainable economy.

“The ABS, initiated by Keidanren in 2010, has become a vital platform for Asian business leaders to discuss regional economic issues. This year, the summit holds special significance as the Philippines takes on the role of host for the first time,” the trade secretary emphasized.

She also recalled past successful collaborations, including the 2021 Philippine Economic Briefing and the 2024 ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit engagements.

“Building on these successful engagements, we seek Keidanren’s continued partnership for the upcoming 14th ABS. We believe their expertise and insights will be invaluable in addressing the summit’s key themes of innovation, free and fair trade, carbon neutrality, and digital transformation,” she stated.

“Keidanren stands as Japan’s most influential business federation, representing over 1,500 leading companies and playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic policies and international trade strategies,” said Special Trade Representative (STR) Dita Angara-Mathay, head of DTI’s field office in Japan. “As we work together to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, our partnership with Keidanren remains instrumental in promoting economic resilience, sustainability, and shared prosperity across the region.”

The DTI and Keidanren committed to closely collaborate on the ABS 2025, recognizing its significance in elevating the economies of the Philippines and ultimately setting the course of Asia’s future.

Though no substantive discussions on the topics were made at the meeting, Keidanren executives registered their interest in the Philippines’ accession to the CPTPP and regional trade dynamics resulting from significant changes in the US trade policy under the Trump administration

Keizai Doyukai: Boosting Skills Exchange

In a similar thrust, Secretary Roque expressed optimism for the Japan-ASEAN Talent Circulation Platform (JATCP) during her meeting with Keizai Doyukai or the Japan Association of Corporate Executives. This initiative aligns with the Philippines’s goal to create an inclusive environment for skills exchange.

Key discussions centered on addressing the language barriers, expanding talent circulation, and amplifying talent match making. Proposed solutions included initially targeting Japanese industries with minimal language requirements while gradually integrating language training programs to enhance workforce adaptability.

The panel also seeks to address talent circulation concerns by aligning the training programs with Japanese industry standards and expanding their workshops from existing workers to new graduates.

Moreover, the panel determined the demand to elevate the talent matchmaking from company-to-company discussions to national level coordination for a more practical implementation.

Initially explored during the 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting in 2024, the platform seeks to align skills development, streamline talent mobility policies, and address workforce shortages.

“Keizai Doyukai brings together over 1,600 top executives from 1,100 leading corporations in Japan. The partnership between PHILJEC and Keizai Doyukai is a vital bridge that not only upskills Filipino talent but also helps address Japan’s pressing labor shortage,” said STR Dita Angara-Mathay.

“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippines is committed to working closely with Keizai Doyukai and other stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities associated with talent circulation. We believe that by fostering a sustainable ecosystem for human resource exchange, we can enhance the competitiveness of both our nations and drive sustainable development in the region,” Secretary Roque stated.

An Open and Dynamic Philippine Economy

The DTI’s strategic cooperation with Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai signifies active engagement of the Japanese business sector, reinforcing the Philippines’ stride as a leading investment destination and a center for human capital. These partnerships are poised to drive significant foreign direct investment, accelerate technology and innovation transfer, enhance human capital development.

“Partnerships with the key industry players allows us to leverage their expertise, technological advancements, and best practices to drive innovation, enhance workforce capabilities, and create more high-value opportunities. Through these partnerships, we attract sustainable investments and support our broader aspirations,” STR Angara-Mathay stated.

“Our strengthened ties with Japanese key industry players are a direct investment in the Philippines’ economic future. We are building an environment that attracts foreign capital and fosters the development of a highly skilled workforce. This collaboration is about creating tangible opportunities for growth and innovation. Working hand-in-hand with Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai, we are solidifying the Philippines as a premier destination for investment and a hub for top talent in the region,” Secretary Roque reaffirmed. ♦

Date of release: 07 March 2025

Tokyo, Japan––”The Philippines is committed to building a future powered by renewable energy and sustainable innovation,” declared Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque. This came during a series of high-level meetings with Sumitomo Corporation, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, and Chodai Co., Ltd., organized last March 3. These engagements renewed the country’s commitment to attracting strategic investments and driving innovation-led economic growth

“By collaborating with industry leaders like Sumitomo, Fujifilm and Chodai, we strengthen our position as a key player in the global shift towards clean and sustainable industries,” the trade chief added.”

The discussions amplified the government’s drive to secure more foreign direct investments, enhance supply chain integration, and create a more robust business environment that fosters long-term economic growth.

“These partnerships reinforce our efforts to future-proof the Philippine economy by diversifying industries, embracing cutting-edge technology, and ensuring we remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape,” said Secretary Roque.

Sumitomo Corporation: Strengthening infrastructure and exploring renewable energy

Secretary Roque’s met with Sumitomo Corporation’s executives to discuss the company’s expanding role in the Philippines’ sustainable industrial transformation and community development. The meeting underscored Sumitomo Corporation’s commitment to expanding its partnerships in key sectors, particularly renewable energy.

Sumitomo Corporation is a significant player in the Philippines’ infrastructure landscape, notably through its involvement in the landmark Metro Manila Subway Project and the MRT Line 3 Maintenance. These projects exemplify the company’s dedication to enhancing the country’s transportation network and supporting urban development.

Leveraging this foundation of infrastructure expertise and recognizing the critical need for sustainable energy solutions, Sumitomo Corporation has announced its intention to significantly expand its renewable energy initiatives in the Philippines starting in 2025. This initiative aligns with the country’s growing focus on sustainable development and energy security.

The company’s contributions extend beyond infrastructure and energy. Sumitomo Corporation plays a pivotal role in encouraging foreign direct investments in manufacturing through its efficient industrial estate management services and marketing operations.

Secretary Roque acknowledged Sumitomo Corporation’s significant contributions to the Philippine economy and welcomed its interest in pursuing opportunities in renewable energy. The trade chief reiterated the Philippines’ strong commitment to economic growth across all sectors, highlighting that Sumitomo’s focus on energy security and resilience aligns perfectly with national priorities.

Fujifilm Holdings Corporation: Establishing a regional hub for sustainability

Fujifilm Holdings Corporation has expressed plans to diversify its operations at its FUJIFILM Optics Philippines Inc. in Laguna, transforming the facility into a regional hub for sustainability initiatives. This strategic diversification will introduce new business lines focused on sustainable manufacturing practices, positioning the Philippines as a central player in Fujifilm’s regional sustainability strategy.

Secretary Roque welcomed these plans in her meeting with Fujifilm. “Fujifilm’s planned investment underscores the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable development and our ability to attract leading multinational corporations. This new project will position the Philippines as a premier destination for sustainable investments in the region,” said Secretary Roque.

Fujifilm’s initiative will focus on enhancing operational efficiency to reduce its environmental footprint. This facility will serve as a pilot project for Fujifilm’s broader vision of diversifying investments in sustainable technologies and practices.

Currently, Fujifilm’s factory in Laguna specializes in the production of high-performance optical lenses, critical components for a wide range of devices, including digital cameras, projectors, and surveillance cameras.   

Chodai Co., Ltd.: Pushes PH sustainable solutions

Chodai Co., Ltd. is actively pursuing sustainable business ventures in the Philippines, focusing on clean energy and waste management projects, as discussed in a recent meeting with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

Chodai’s initiatives include the deployment of zero-initial-cost solar power systems for small-scale resorts and hotels in Palawan. This initiative aims to eliminate reliance on diesel power generators, promoting cleaner energy alternatives. Additionally, the company plans to establish a biomass power generation plant in Central Luzon.

Furthermore, Chodai is introducing advanced Japanese waste treatment equipment to hospitals in Tarlac. This technology utilizes gasification combustion for solid waste and bio-water circulation for liquid waste, ensuring safe and efficient medical waste disposal. In Davao and Mindoro, Chodai is implementing resource recovery and reforestation projects, converting environmental liabilities into sustainable assets.

“Chodai’s comprehensive approach to sustainable development will have a transformative impact on communities across the Philippines. Their projects in clean energy, waste management, and sustainable industry will drive economic growth while protecting our environment,” Secretary Roque noted.

Philippines: A future-ready green economy

“The Philippines’ strategic partnerships with publicly listed companies, including Sumitomo Corporation, Fujifilm, and Chodai, which maintain strong SDG programs, are crucial for our transition to a forward-looking, innovation-driven green economy. By collaborating with these industry leaders, we secure high-quality investments and expedite our progress towards a globally competitive and sustainable growth model,” stated DTI Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay.

Pursuing the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas, Secretary Roque reaffirmed the DTI’s commitment to secure an inclusive and sustainable economic growth. “Our engagement with these green companies is more than just attracting investments—it is about shaping a resilient, future-ready Philippines,” said Secretary Roque.

“We are forging strong, high-impact partnerships that drive industrial transformation, propel us to the forefront of the global economy, and secure a future where every Filipino benefits from progress, sustainability, and shared prosperity. Through sustainability-driven investments, we are paving the way for a greener, more inclusive Bagong Pilipinas,” Secretary Roque underscored. ♦

Date of release: 06 March 2025

Tokyo, Japan—The Philippines is witnessing a significant boost in its infrastructure capacity as Taiheiyo Cement Philippines, Inc. (TCPI) doubles its cement production in Cebu. The company’s PHP 12.8 billion state-of-the-art, energy-efficient manufacturing facility has increased its output from 50,000 to 65,000 bags to a remarkable 100,000 bags per day, directly addressing the country’s growing infrastructure needs.

This surge in production was highlighted during a meeting between Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque and TCPI executives on March 03. The discussions focused on Taiheiyo’s long-term commitment to the local market, with the company pledging to continue developing strategies to boost domestic production by enhancing distribution networks.

“The Philippines cement sector presents robust growth opportunities backed by a supportive regulatory framework, strategic location in Southeast Asia, rapid urbanization, a growing effort to sustainable practices, and a readily available, skilled labor pool,” said Secretary Roque.

“Our ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ vision aims to create a fertile ground for global industry leaders like Taiheiyo Cement to advance their investments, drive innovation, and contribute to the country’s sustainable development. This is crucial for building a more competitive and resilient industrial sector,” the trade chief added.

Facilitating the meeting, Special Trade Representative (STR) Dita Angara Mathay of the DTI-Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo affirmed TCPI’s critical contribution to the Philippines’ growth. She stated, “TCPI’s global leadership in cement production, evidenced by their numerous awards for quality, sustainability, and innovation, positions them as a key partner in our national development and modernization efforts.”

Building on its established presence in Cebu since 2000, Taiheiyo is constructing a distribution terminal in Calaca, Batangas, strategically targeting the Luzon market, which accounts for 64% of the country’s cement demand. Once operational, this new facility will streamline logistics, optimize supply chain efficiency, and ensure timely delivery of cement to this critical region.

To bolster a competitive environment in the cement industry, the DTI has been implementing rigorous quality control measures and enforcing fair trade practices. She underscored the DTI’s dedication to maintaining a level playing field, ensuring product standards, and protecting both consumers and local manufacturers.

“Like cement that fortifies structure, Taiheiyo’s investments will strengthen the Philippines’ foundation for sustained industrial excellence, paving the way for resilient infrastructure, residential, and commercial development that will benefit generations to come. By integrating modern technologies and improving operational efficiency, this partnership expands local production, generates quality jobs, and reinforces the country’s position as a key force in regional infrastructure advancement,” Secretary Roque emphasized. ♦

Date of release: 06 March 2025

Tokyo, Japan––Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque held meetings with top executives from Ibiden Co., Ltd. and Nidec Corporation on March 3, securing commitments that will strengthen the country’s position in the global supply chain for advanced electronics and precision manufacturing.

“The Philippines is taking bold steps to position itself as a global hub for advanced electronics and precision manufacturing. Our partnerships with industry leaders like Ibiden and Nidec accelerate our push for cutting-edge innovation, strengthen our semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing ecosystem, and generate high-value employment,” Secretary Roque reaffirmed.

“By aggressively expanding our industrial capabilities, we are shaping a future-ready economy that is competitive, resilient, and deeply integrated into the global supply chain,” she added.

Ibiden: Expanding semiconductor leadership in the Philippines

Secretary Roque and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) Frederick D. Go engaged in high-level discussions with senior executives of Ibiden Co. Ltd., a global leader in advanced substrate technologies and a key supplier to industry giants like Nvidia and Intel. With a significant global market share in critical semiconductor components, Ibiden’s existing Philippine operations, which contribute substantially to the country’s total exports, are pivotal to the nation’s economy.

“We welcome Ibiden’s strategic plans to further advance its operations in the Philippines. Their expansion will not only enhance our semiconductor ecosystem but also attract further high-value investments, reinforcing our role in the global supply chain,” Secretary Roque emphasized.

Ibiden’s 25-year presence in the Philippines highlights the country’s growing strength as a premier destination for high-value semiconductor manufacturing. As the only substrate manufacturing facility in the Philippines and the first in Southeast Asia, Ibiden holds a critical position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

“Ibiden’s operations in the Philippines are a testament to the country’s capabilities in advanced electronics manufacturing. Their role as a key supplier to industry leaders like Intel reinforces the Philippines’ strategic importance as a hub for the global semiconductor and electronics industry, aligning perfectly with the government’s vision,” noted Special Trade Representative (STR) Dita Angara-Mathay, lead officer in DTI’s field office in Japan.

Nidec: Driving robotics and precision manufacturing growth

In a parallel development, Secretary Roque met with officials of Nidec Corporation, where she expressed her optimism over potential expansion in the Philippines. Notably, the Philippines already plays a crucial role in Nidec’s global gearbox production, contributing a substantial portion of their market share.

“Nidec’s potential expansion, particularly in support of their growing robotics projects, will generate high-quality employment and attract significant foreign capital. This will solidify the Philippines as a key player in the high-tech manufacturing landscape,” said Secretary Roque.

SAPIEA Go added, “The rapid advancements in AI have ushered in a new era for humanoid robotics, with surging demand across major markets like China, the US, Europe, and Japan. Nidec’s leadership in precision automation and their continued investment in this sector underscores the immense potential of high-tech manufacturing in the Philippines.”

The Philippines remains a strong contender for Nidec’s expansion, thanks to our highly skilled, loyal, and adaptable workforce. “With a supportive investment environment and a government committed to fostering innovation, we are confident that the country can play a vital role in the future of robotics and AI-driven industries,” added STR Angara-Mathay.

The expansion is expected to support Nidec’s growing robotics project, which requires more gearboxes per unit, driving demand and generate high-quality employment.

Boosting innovation and economic growth

The meetings with Ibiden Co., Ltd. and Nidec are set to bolster the country’s standing in the global technology and manufacturing landscape. The partnerships secured during these high-level meetings in Tokyo are expected to drive investment and job creation in advanced manufacturing.

“Engaging with industry leaders like Ibiden and Nidec on platforms like these is crucial in advancing the Philippines’ role in high-tech manufacturing. These strategic dialogues open doors for investment, technology transfer, and collaboration, reinforcing our position in the global supply chain and driving innovation-led growth,” stated STR Angara-Mathay.

Secretary Roque concluded, “We are committed to solidifying the Philippines as a hub for high-tech manufacturing and innovation. This is how we build a future-ready, globally competitive Bagong Pilipinas.”  

“Our engagement with Ibiden and Nidec is a testament to our strategy of attracting quality investments that create high-value jobs, enhance our industrial capabilities, and ensure long-term economic resilience,” said the trade chief.

Strategic directional guidance was provided by SAPIEA Frederick D. Go during the meeting, which was also attended by Director General Tereso Panga of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, DTI Assistant Secretary Englebert Josef Chua, and DTI Assistant Secretary May Niña Celynne Layug. ♦

Date of release: 06 March 2025