By Robina Asido

The Philippines secured P 51 billion worth of Japanese investments following a series of high-level meetings organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque made the announcement of investment commitments during the Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) in Osaka. It includes "new investments and project expansions from three Japanese conglomerates in consumer services, property development, advanced industries, and clean energy, along with a new investor in the leisure and entertainment sector."

According to DTI, ''these investments were finalized through a series of high-level meetings in Tokyo organized by DTI’s team in Japan under Special Trade Representative Dita Angara-Mathay.''

The deals secured include Koshidaka Holdings Co., Ltd., operator of the world’s largest karaoke chain, which will invest ?34 billion to open 300 outlets nationwide over the next decade, generating more than 1,500 direct jobs and supporting thousands more through construction and supply-chain activities.

Marubeni Corp. also committed ?15 billion for real estate, fintech, healthcare, and afforestation projects, while Sojitz Corp. confirmed a ?2??3 billion investment in a property developer to attract AI, semiconductor design, software, and healthcare firms, as well as expressing interest in aviation-related projects, while Mitsui & Co. reaffirmed its partnership with Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Steel Asia on a steel recycling initiative that supports circular economy and decarbonization goals.

Angara-Mathay emphasized that the presence of the full Philippine delegation sent a powerful signal to investors.

“Their collective participation assured investors of high-level government commitment and seamless coordination ? giving confidence that these projects will be fast-tracked from commitment to execution,” she said.

Roque said the discussions enabled the country’s economic managers led by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and joined by Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, and BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Abenoja to jointly review the projects, align government support, and ensure an enabling environment for smooth rollout and expansion.

“These commitments in green energy, smart housing, healthcare, and creative services highlight the strength of our partnership with Japan," said Roque.

"DTI and the Economic Team will work together to ensure these projects generate quality jobs, strengthen supply chains, and advance the country’s shift to a green, digital, and broad-based economy,” she added. DMS