President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Singapore Wednesday night, Oct. 8, for a five-day working visit, with investments in artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology and advanced manufacturing among the priorities on his agenda.

Marcos Jr. is scheduled to attend the 24th Forbes Global CEO Conference, which is expected to draw around 450 business and thought leaders from around the world.

In his departure statement, the President said he would use the gathering to promote the Philippines as an investment destination for emerging industries.

He said the country would also highlight opportunities in infrastructure, energy, healthcare and other sectors.

But Marcos Jr. said attracting investors would not be enough, stressing the need to build the infrastructure, energy capacity and technical expertise required by these industries.

The President is also scheduled to visit the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute to learn from Singapore’s experience in nuclear technology and safety.

He will meet Singapore Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong for talks on bilateral ties and regional developments.

Singapore will take over as ASEAN chair next year as the Philippines ends its 2026 chairmanship.IMT