President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday touted the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals and enabling policies as among the main reasons that make the Philippines a leading investment destination.

In a speech at the Asia Society in New York, Marcos said the Philippine economy expanded by 5.7 percent last year and 7.8 percent in the first half of this year.

“Growth was broad-based, driven not only by government spending but also by household consumption and investments, reinforced by consumer and business confidence,” said Marcos.

Marcos also cited enabling policies and investor-friendly laws that seek to “leverage game-changing reforms.”

The chief executive also took note of the country’s human capital and boasted of an “English-speaking workforce” that is globally competitive.

“Another strong point is our human capital. We boast of a young, educated, hardworking, and English-speaking workforce that is among the best in the world,” said Marcos.

Asia Society is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization working to build bridges of understanding between the East and West.

Marcos is on the final day of his six-day trip to the United States, where he delivered a historic speech at the United Nations General Assembly.

Marcos also met with heads of state, including US President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, as well as American business leaders from a wide range of sectors in a bid to yield investment pledges and bolster job creation. (PND)