The planned investment, discussed during a mid-March meeting with Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, underscores increasing investor confidence in the Philippines’ tech-driven growth story and its long-term economic fundamentals.

The Department of Finance (DOF) said the capital infusion is expected to expand access to funding for high-growth startups, enabling them to scale operations, generate jobs, and deliver more competitive products and services.

“Foxmont’s continued engagement with Philippine startups reflects strong confidence in the country’s long-term fundamentals and policies. Their investment will help our startups scale, strengthen Filipino talent, foster innovation, and build agile enterprises that deliver more accessible products and services to Filipinos,” Secretary Frederick Go said.

Foxmont, a Philippines-focused venture capital firm, is doubling down on the local ecosystem as momentum builds. The country’s startup sector attracted $1.5 billion in private capital in 2025, a 34% increase from the previous record of $1.12 billion, signaling stronger investor appetite for technology-enabled enterprises.

The firm is currently raising its third fund and aims to expand investments in companies addressing real market needs while driving inclusive growth.

“Foxmont’s planned investments into the Philippines reflect our continued conviction in Philippine companies that can drive productivity, scale efficiently, and compete in higher-value sectors. We see strong opportunities to work alongside partners across government and the broader ecosystem to deepen private capital’s impact on the economy,” said Foxmont Managing Partner Franco Varona.

Since 2018, Foxmont has deployed over ₱1 billion across two funds, backing startups in fintech, e-commerce, and digital platforms.

Despite recent gains, Foxmont noted that private capital in the Philippines still accounts for only 0.3% of GDP, leaving significant room for expansion. Its latest investment plan signals confidence that the country can further position itself as a competitive player in the global startup landscape.

The DOF, for its part, reaffirmed support for initiatives that attract venture capital and scale innovation-driven enterprises, viewing private capital as a key driver of job creation and long-term economic growth.

“We look forward to the seamless implementation of these rules, ensuring that the benefits are felt by the business and investment community,” the ECCP said in a statement.

Finalized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) earlier this week at the Asian Development Bank headquarters, the IRR signals what the Chamber described as a “turning point” for nationwide digitalization and the streamlining of public service delivery.

For the Philippine-European business community, the ECCP said the development is expected to improve the ease of doing business and strengthen the country’s position as an attractive investment destination.

The Chamber has long advocated for the digitalization of government services as a way to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and promote transparency. It noted that the mandate to develop and implement an E-Government Master Plan provides a clear framework for harmonizing digital initiatives across national government agencies and local government units.

The ECCP also expressed support for efforts to strengthen the country’s digital workforce, particularly through the expansion of the ICT Academy, which aims to equip Filipinos with the specialized skills needed to manage and sustain digital infrastructure.

The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government, including the DICT and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), as well as other stakeholders, to ensure the effective and seamless implementation of the new rules.

The ECCP is a multilateral foreign chamber that promotes European business interests in the Philippines while fostering stronger economic ties between Europe and the country.

With close to 1,000 member companies and strong partnerships with government institutions, the Chamber serves as a key platform for business dialogue and collaboration, helping translate policy developments into tangible economic opportunities.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its E-Commerce Bureau (ECB), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Direct Selling Association of the Philippines (DSAP) on March 17, 2026, establishing a coordinated effort to curb unauthorized online selling and promote a safer digital marketplace.

The agreement, signed at Discovery Suites in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, focuses on protecting consumers from illegitimate sellers while supporting legitimate businesses that comply with fair trade standards.

Under the partnership, both parties will collaborate on information sharing, consumer education, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening accountability and trust in online transactions.

DTI ECB Director Atty. Eryl Royce R. Nagtalon underscored that safeguarding consumers in the digital economy requires shared responsibility.

“This partnership with DSAP is a recognition that effective e-commerce governance requires collaboration. The government cannot do this alone,” Atty. Nagtalon said.

He stressed that beyond addressing unauthorized sellers, the broader goal is to restore confidence in online platforms.

“The goal of this partnership is not only to address unauthorized online selling of direct selling companies’ products, more importantly, this is about building trust in the digital marketplace,” he added.

The initiative is aligned with Republic Act No. 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act, which mandates the DTI to strengthen consumer protection and ensure fair competition in e-commerce.

For its part, DSAP said the agreement reinforces the need for ethical business practices as more companies shift to digital platforms.

“This partnership between DSAP and the DTI E-Commerce Bureau reflects a shared vision of a digital marketplace built on trust, accountability, and responsible innovation,” said DSAP Chairman Joey Sarmiento.

“As the direct selling industry continues to embrace digital platforms, collaboration between the private sector and government is essential to safeguard consumers, protect legitimate businesses, and elevate the standards of e-commerce in the Philippines,” he added.

The DTI said it will continue working with industry stakeholders to ensure that the country’s digital marketplace remains safe, fair, and trustworthy for consumers.

At a press briefing, DTI Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty said that the annual retreat allows the Philippines to set regional priorities, advance initiatives that support national interests, and strengthen economic cooperation with ASEAN’s partners.

“On the retreat proper, the Philippines participation both as AEM Chair and AEM Philippine Lead, provides a good opportunity to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to advancing a more resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN,” Gepty said.

Among key areas to be discussed during the Retreat are the Philippine Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs), which Gepty described as the highlight of the meeting.

“The PEDs cover a diverse range of areas of trade such as energy, agriculture, strategic trade management, MSMEs, and artificial intelligence, and ASEAN’s efforts to advance the sustainable and green agenda,” Gepty said.

One key PED is Greener Future – Implementation of the Regional Investment Promotion Action Plan 2025-2030, which Gepty said aims to make ASEAN a single destination for sustainable investment, accelerate green transition, and promote inclusive growth.

Another major deliverable is the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), the region’s most comprehensive agreement on digital economy and e-commerce.

“It aims to create a digital environment that is open, secure, interoperable, competitive, and inclusive,” Gepty said.

Gepty also cited the ASEAN Semiconductor Roadmap, which aims to strengthen regional value chains, develop skilled workers, and position ASEAN as a global hub for semiconductor investment.

Other PEDs include the ASEAN Center of Excellence for Creative Industries (ACE–CI), the ASEAN Center of Excellence for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, and energy initiatives under the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) to improve energy connectivity.

The Retreat will also discuss a Leaders’ Declaration on Strategic Trade Management for Secure Regional Trade to regulate trade in sensitive goods and technologies, particularly those that can be used as biological weapons and weapons of mass destruction.

“Strategic Trade Management will ensure that these goods will not fall into the wrong hands. A robust Strategic Trade Management increases the trust of foreign investors and companies, secures access to strategic technologies, and protects high-value sectors of the country,” Gepty said.

Recognizing that the Retreat comes at a critical time amid recent global developments, Gepty said, “ASEAN remains central to these developments, and plays a vital role in shaping the global economy. Thus, showing our united resolve as we navigate our future is a strength in itself.”

President Lee’s visit — his first since assuming office June last year — comes as the two countries mark the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations, a partnership that was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2024 and further strengthened by a recent free trade agreement (FTA).

During a bilateral meeting and joint press conference, President Marcos highlighted the progress made in expanding cooperation between Manila and Seoul.

“We agreed that we have made significant strides in advancing and deepening our bilateral cooperation toward the attainment of our mutually beneficial goals,” President Marcos said following talks with President Lee and his delegation.

The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including defense and security cooperation, maritime collaboration, economic development initiatives, and people-to-people exchanges, reflecting the broad scope of the two nations’ growing relationship.

President Marcos noted that both governments are working to expand trade and investment while maximizing the benefits of the Philippines-ROK FTA.

He also acknowledged South Korea’s role in strengthening Philippine capabilities in several strategic sectors.

The Philippine leader cited Korea’s contributions to the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the strengthening of the Philippine Coast Guard, as well as investments that have helped revive the shipbuilding industry and strengthen the country’s semiconductor value chain.

President Marcos also thanked the ROK for supporting major development initiatives, including infrastructure projects such as the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao, as well as programs in health, agricultural mechanization, energy, and artificial intelligence.

He likewise recognized Seoul’s support for the rights and welfare of more than 70,000 Filipinos living and working in Korea.

Beyond bilateral cooperation, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues, including developments in the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of upholding a rules-based international order, particularly in maritime domains, amid growing geopolitical tensions.

Ten new agreements signed

The visit also produced 10 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) covering key sectors, ranging from defense and agriculture to digital cooperation and cultural exchange.

“And as we have just witnessed, we have concluded a number of agreements in the fields of defense materials procurement, veterans affairs, agriculture, trade, investment and economic cooperation, intellectual property, digital cooperation, digitalization and innovation, Korean language training in schools, cultural cooperation, and police cooperation, which will sustain the momentum of the Philippines-ROK Strategic Partnership for the future,” President Marcos said.

The agreements include cooperation on digital technology, innovation programs, defense procurement, veterans affairs, agricultural collaboration, trade and investment promotion, intellectual property protection, Korean language education in Philippine schools, cultural exchange, and police coordination.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by both leaders during their meeting in Malacañang.

State banquet celebrates longstanding friendship

The diplomatic engagements culminated in a state banquet hosted by President Marcos under the chandeliers of the Ceremonial Hall at Malacañan Palace in honor of President Lee and First Lady Kim Hea-kyung.

“It is my distinct honor to welcome His Excellency Lee Jae-myung, President of the Republic of Korea, to Malacañan Palace this evening. The productive relations which we elevated to a strategic partnership in 2024 span many areas of mutual interest,” President Marcos said in his toast.

The Philippine leader emphasized the long-standing friendship between Filipinos and Koreans, built through decades of cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, security, and cultural exchange.

“During our comprehensive meetings, President Lee and I covered a wide range of areas in our bilateral partnership, including defense and security, maritime cooperation, economic development and cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. We have made significant strides in advancing and deepening our bilateral cooperation towards the attainment of our mutually beneficial goals,” the President added.

President Lee, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea-kyung, earlier began his visit by laying a wreath at the monument of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at Rizal Park.

He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the Filipino people and reaffirmed Korea’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the Philippines in areas such as innovation, infrastructure development, maritime and defense engagement, and people-to-people ties.

The visit will conclude Wednesday with the two leaders joining government and business leaders at the Philippines-Korea Business Forum in Pasay City, where officials hope to translate the strengthened diplomatic ties into expanded economic collaboration.

As social media increasingly doubles as a sales channel, regulators are reminding online merchants that digital convenience comes with regulatory obligations.

The partnership, led by DTI’s E-Commerce Bureau (ECB), centers on helping sellers understand and comply with Republic Act 11967, also known as the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, which sets rules for online transactions and platform accountability.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed between DTI and TikTok Shop, the two parties will roll out awareness and capacity-building initiatives, including webinars, short educational videos, and learning modules. These materials aim to guide platform sellers on their duties and liabilities when conducting internet-based trade.

The initiative kicked off with a January 28 webinar for TikTok Shop sellers that drew over 179,000 views. The session introduced the mandate of the DTI ECB and key programs supporting the implementation of RA 11967.

DTI ECB Director Atty. Eryl Royce Nagtalon highlighted that “collaboration with a private e-commerce stakeholder such as TikTok Shop is a key initiative of the government to continuously enhance the skills and services of online sellers, including their awareness of their obligations and liabilities under the Internet Transactions Act and other regulatory requirements.”

Yves Gonzalez, TikTok Shop’s Head of Public Policy, also emphasized that “this understanding strengthens our common goal of building a more robust e-commerce sector by focusing on and prioritizing the continuous development of our sellers. Both TikTok Shop and DTI ECB recognize the positive change and impact that ongoing learning brings to our sellers, ultimately contributing to a vibrant and future-proof e-commerce ecosystem.”

The launch, held during the UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week 2026 on February 9–10, highlighted the Philippines’ rising role in the region’s digital transformation and marked a new strategic partnership between the British Embassy in Manila and the AI and Analytics Association of the Philippines.

The Lookbook is designed as a tool for policymakers, companies, and institutions seeking solutions to support ASEAN’s push toward an integrated, digital-first economy — a shift widely seen as one of the region’s most significant economic opportunities as cross-border trade increasingly relies on data, analytics, and secure digital infrastructure.

Alongside the launch, the new partnership with the AI and Analytics Association of the Philippines aims to promote the responsible, inclusive, and trustworthy adoption of artificial intelligence and analytics. The collaboration will provide a platform for sharing best practices and strengthening innovation ecosystems between the two countries.

Rhiannon Harries, Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia), underscored the strategic importance of digital cooperation in the region.

“Southeast Asia has a bold vision for a digital and data-driven economy, and the UK is well-placed to support this. The 10 UK companies participating in this year’s Tech Week represent our $1.2 trillion technology sector – they provide the compute, insight, and security needed to support the region’s digital ambitions. We are excited to work more closely with the Philippines as ASEAN Chair in the UK’s 5th year of being Dialogue Partner.”

British Ambassador to the Philippines Sarah Hulton OBE emphasized that practical collaboration is at the heart of the initiative.

“UK-Southeast Asia Tech week puts practical collaboration at the center, linking the region’s priorities in digital innovation and financial services with proven UK expertise.”

“Here in the Philippines, the growing footprint of UK tech firms, from digital identity to cybersecurity capability, shows how partnerships deliver outcomes that strengthen both our country’s digital economies. We look forward to working closer together especially as we celebrate 80 years of UK-Philippines diplomatic relations and the UK’s 5th year as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner,” she added.

The two-day Tech Week gathering brought a delegation of 10 UK companies specializing in artificial intelligence, data centers, and cybersecurity to Manila, where they met with Philippine tech firms, policymakers, and investors to explore collaboration.

The event featured a technology showcase led by companies such as Arup, iProov, and UnionDigital Bank, demonstrating innovations ranging from cybersecurity solutions to digital twins. Panel discussions on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity explored emerging threats, trends, and the growing need for cross-border cooperation in protecting digital systems.

Minette Navarrete, Managing Partner and President of Kickstart Ventures, highlighted the importance of collaboration in navigating today’s rapidly evolving global environment.

“The antidote to an increasingly VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) and BANI (brittle, anxious, non-linear, and incomprehensible) world is partnerships that are BRAVE–Borderless, Relational, Adaptable, Values-aligned, and deeply rooted in strong Ecosystems,” she said.

The UK and the Philippines already maintain a growing network of technology collaborations. UK firm iProov is working with UnionDigital Bank to strengthen digital trust and security in financial services, while CyberQ Group has partnered with a Philippine technology solutions provider to expand cybersecurity capabilities.

In the fintech space, UK unicorns Wise and Revolut are expanding their presence in the country, with Revolut opening a Global Tech Hub in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Philippine Space Agency is working with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd on the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) satellite, designed to support agriculture monitoring, disaster response, and maritime tracking.

Collectively, the UK companies participating in Tech Week employ more than 30,000 people worldwide and represent a combined valuation exceeding £100 billion, reflecting the scale of the UK’s technology sector engagement with the region.

UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week is the UK Government’s flagship science and innovation event, with this year’s program spanning Singapore, Manila, and Kuala Lumpur. For the Philippines, the launch of the TradeTech Lookbook and the new AI partnership signal a deeper alignment with global digital trends, at a time when regional economies are racing to build more secure, data-driven, and interconnected trade systems.

To foster a more inclusive economy, DTI has designated ₱2 billion from the Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) fund for the Women’s Enterprise Fund (WEF) in 2026. The program supports women-led businesses ready to grow, hire more workers, and expand their economic impact — while also helping families gain stronger financial security.

“We continue to support women entrepreneurs seeking local and global expansion, while also opening opportunities for those ready to expand, create jobs, and strengthen local economies. We understand that capital is a challenge to many, and the DTI through SBCorp have tailored programs to meet the needs of our MSMEs like this Women’s Enterprise Fund,” Ma. Cristina Roque stated.

Borrow capital digitally — anytime, anywhere

Applying for business capital is now more convenient. Women entrepreneurs can file loan applications online through:

• SBCorp Money App (Google Play & Huawei AppGallery)
• Web app: app.sbcorp.ph

This digital access allows business owners to secure funding without leaving their shops, homes, or workplaces — making capital more reachable, especially for women balancing enterprise and family responsibilities.

Loan features tailored for women-led MSMEs

The Women’s Enterprise Fund offers flexible terms designed to help businesses breathe and grow:

• Loan Amount: ₱30,000 to ₱20 million
• Grace Period: No payment of capital and interest for the first year for eligible products
• Repayment Terms: Up to five years
• Collateral: Waived for loans up to ₱5 million

These features allow entrepreneurs to focus first on stabilizing operations, building inventory, and expanding markets before repayment begins.

Support available nationwide

For those who prefer guided assistance, DTI encourages applicants to visit any of the 1,431 Negosyo Centers nationwide. These centers help women entrepreneurs understand business opportunities, prepare requirements, and navigate DTI programs.

Interested applicants may also call the hotline 1-384 for more information.

With digital access, flexible terms, and dedicated support, DTI’s Women’s Enterprise Fund positions capital not as a barrier — but as a bridge for Filipina entrepreneurs ready to grow.

The milestone was marked by the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Globe and Starlink on Friday at The Globe Tower in Taguig City, according to a Malacañang news release.

President Marcos said the initiative aligns with the administration’s goal of building a digital future that reaches even the country’s most remote and underserved communities.

“With the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between Globe and Starlink, we take a huge step forward towards a more progressive, connected, and equitable Philippines,” the President said.

“This collaboration is proof of our shared commitment to bringing connectivity to even the farthest communities in our archipelago,” he added.

Under the partnership, the Philippines rolls out Direct-to-Cell technology, which allows smartphones to connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites without the need for additional hardware or special applications.

The service enables basic mobile functions such as messaging and data access, particularly in areas where traditional telecom infrastructure remains difficult to deploy.

“Through the launch of Direct-to-Cell or D2C service—first in Southeast Asia and second in Asia—we made satellite-powered mobile connectivity available in the Philippines,” President Marcos said.

The President underscored that digital inclusion has been a priority of his administration from the outset, framing connectivity as both a development necessity and a government responsibility.

“From the very beginning of this Administration, we have been very clear: The future of the Philippines must be and will be digital—and it must be inclusive,” he said.

“We envision a country where every child can learn without limits, where every farmer can access markets beyond their barangay, where small businesses can grow beyond their neighborhoods, and where families can stay connected no matter how far apart they may be,” he added.

President Marcos also highlighted the technology’s importance during emergencies, noting that satellite connectivity can continue operating even when land-based networks are damaged by typhoons and other natural disasters.

“Sa pamamagitan ng D2C Service, madaragdagan ang mga teknolohiyang maaaring magbigay-ginhawa sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay,” the President said.

He reiterated the government’s push to strengthen digital infrastructure, fast-track government digitalization, expand online learning platforms, and support countryside development through better connectivity.

“Ito po ang ating layunin: Mas mabilis na internet access para sa bawat Pilipino. Pantay-pantay na oportunidad. At walang sinumang Pilipino na maiiwanan o mahuhuli,” President Marcos said, noting that improved rural access can spur job creation, attract investments, and bring essential services closer to communities.

The President also acknowledged Globe’s role in shaping the country’s digital ecosystem through innovation, cybersecurity initiatives, and community empowerment, and recognized Starlink and SpaceX for bringing advanced satellite technology to the Philippines.

“What Globe and Starlink are doing today brings us closer to that goal. It shows that when the government and private sector move with purpose and shared commitment, we broaden the possibilities for a more connected Philippines,” he said.

“So, together, let us build a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino finds their place in this new digital world,” the President added.

The Globe-Starlink partnership combines satellite and terrestrial technologies to expand coverage in remote and disaster-prone areas, marking a key step toward more inclusive and resilient connectivity nationwide.

“These days, most scammers don’t break into accounts by force—they convince you to open the door,” said Jon Paz, BPI’s Data Protection Officer.

“They use urgency, fear, or familiarity to make you act without thinking. That’s where the danger lies,” he said in a news release.

Paz noted that banks continue to invest heavily in cybersecurity, including AI-driven fraud monitoring and multi-factor authentication. However, even the most advanced systems can be bypassed when customers are tricked into giving secret information away.

“We can build the strongest systems, but scammers take advantage of human vulnerabilities. Awareness remains to be the most important defense against scams,” he added.

For consumers to be more aware, here are the tactics fraudsters commonly use—and how customers can stay a step ahead.

1. Fake bank calls that sound real

One of the most common tactics involves callers who claim to work for banks, e-wallets, or any financial service company. They would claim that there’s a suspicious transaction, or they need to “verify” your account. Their goal is to get you to reveal your OTP, password, or card details. Banks do not ask for OTPs or passwords over the phone. If you receive a call like this, or you have inquiries, BPI encourages customers to call its 24-hour Contact Center at (+632) 889-10000 or chat with BEA on the official website.

2. Links that lead to look-alike sites

Fraudsters send messages promising refunds, rewards, or account reactivation. The link directs you to a fake banking page designed to harvest your login details. Remember, BPI will never send clickable links via email or text, so NEVER click on any link. You will also know if it is fake by checking the URL carefully. If it’s not the bank’s official domain —bpi.com.ph—it is a scam.

3. Routine “verification” requests

Some scammers pose as bank staff conducting a quick system check. They may ask you to read an OTP aloud, screen-share your phone, or install an app.

Customers are advised that banks never perform account verification through unsolicited calls or chats. Clients must download apps only from Google Play Store, Apple AppStore, and other official mobile app download sites.

4. AI screenshots as payment confirmation

Social media marketplaces are fertile ground for scam buyers or sellers offering deals that seem urgent or unusually cheap. They may request payment upfront and even send fake payment confirmations to appear legitimate. However, once the payment is made, the goods or funds never arrive.

If you’re an online seller, scammers may use AI-generated payment confirmation screenshots. BPI is urging customers to check the account to verify, and not just rely on a screenshot.

5. “Emergency” money requests

Scammers sometimes pretend to be a friend or relative using a new number, claiming they need money urgently. Consumers must verify through another contact or channel before sending anything.

Tech helps, but awareness is essential. In summary, BPI encourages customers to:

1. Keep OTPs and passwords confidential.

2. Ignore links sent via text, even if it appears to be from BPI.

3. Transact only through official bank platforms.

4. Report any suspicious activity immediately.