Insider Spotlight
The meeting underscored the growing role of Japanese companies in the Philippine economy, with President Marcos highlighting their contributions across sectors ranging from infrastructure and manufacturing to logistics, energy, tourism, and digital transformation.
“Japanese companies have long been part of the Philippine story. But today, I want to say this clearly: you are no longer just investors in our economy; you are the builders of our economy,” the President said during the roundtable.
Why it matters
The event signals continued confidence from Japanese corporations in the Philippines at a time when governments across Asia are seeking to strengthen industrial resilience and regional supply chains. Toyota’s message focused on sustaining local automotive production and creating broader economic benefits through localization.
Representing Toyota Motor Corp., Asia Region CEO Masahiko Maeda pointed to the company’s nearly 38 years of operations in the Philippines and urged continued support for Complete Knocked-Down manufacturing across vehicle technologies.
“Toyota remains committed to being a reliable, long-term partner to the Philippines supporting industrial development and Asean cooperation ... We encourage the government to promote CKD-based local manufacturing across all technologies... This will help micro, small, and medium enterprises, deepen localization, strengthen local suppliers including conversions, attract investment, and sustain employment,” Maeda said.
By the numbers
Toyota Motor Philippines continues local production of models including the Vios, Innova, and Tamaraw. The company also highlighted Toyota Aisin Philippines, whose transmission manufacturing operations have generated more than $3.8 billion in cumulative exports to markets across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Toyota also promoted biofuels as part of the Asian Zero Emission Community framework, arguing that wider adoption of blends such as E20 and B5 could strengthen energy security while creating new opportunities for Philippine farmers.
The roundtable concluded with Japanese business leaders expressing confidence in the Philippines’ economic trajectory, reinforcing expectations that the two countries’ decades-long economic partnership will continue supporting investment, trade, and industrial growth in the years ahead. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
