More Countries Eye Participation in Luzon Economic Corridor Projects

Several countries have expressed keen interest in collaborating on the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), an ambitious infrastructure initiative aimed at linking Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. The LEC is envisioned to enhance connectivity through high-impact projects such as ports and railways.

Global Interest

Representatives from Australia, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom attended a joint exploratory meeting in Malacañang last week, signaling their intention to contribute to the corridor’s development.

• Australia: Charge d’Affaires Moya Collet emphasized strengthening trade and investment ties, noting Australia’s commitment to investing over ₱20 billion in the Philippines over the next five years to support its development goals.
• South Korea: Ambassador Lee Sang-Hwa highlighted ongoing sustainable infrastructure investments, including partnerships on the Light Rail Transit, the North-South Commuter Railway Project, and the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network.
• Sweden: Trade Commissioner Johan Lennefalk shared Sweden’s initiatives in feasibility studies for a freight railway project, as well as contributions in healthcare and mining to foster inclusive economic growth.
• United Kingdom: Ambassador Laure Beaufils cited investments in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and transport, alongside financing for sustainable mining and technical security partnerships.

Regional Partnerships

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go said the LEC has gained strong support since its announcement during the Trilateral Leaders’ Summit in Washington, D.C., in April.

“The commitment from these like-minded partners signals a robust future for the LEC, promising enhanced infrastructure, sustainable development, and strengthened economic ties across borders,” Go stated.

The LEC is a collaboration with the United States and Japan, marking the first initiative of its kind in the Indo-Pacific region.

Ensuring Continuity

Despite impending leadership changes in the U.S. with Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, Go expressed confidence that the LEC would remain a priority.

“We are happy that several other countries have signified their desire to contribute to the development of the Corridor,” he added.

The project is expected to drive economic growth, improve regional connectivity, and create sustainable infrastructure solutions, reinforcing the Philippines’ position as a key player in the Indo-Pacific.