DTI Secretary Cristina Roque giving a keynote address at the Philippine and Slovenia Business Forum. Screen displays her name and title.
In photo: DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque during her keynote address at the Philippine and Slovenia Business Forum

Taguig City, Philippines— “It is my honor to welcome all of you to the Philippines-Slovenia Business Forum—a significant milestone in strengthening the economic ties between our two nations. We are not just opening a dialogue; we are building bridges of collaboration, investment, and shared prosperity,” Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized during the Philippine and Slovenia Business Forum on March 12.

“Slovenia and the Philippines may be geographically distant, but we are united by a common goal—to foster economic growth through innovation, trade, and investment. This forum is a testament to our mutual recognition that the future of trade is not just about transactions, but about partnerships—ones that create lasting economic opportunities for both our people,” the trade chief added.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque and Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Tanja Fajon is photographed during a meeting.
From L to R: DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque together with Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Tanja Fajon

Secretary Roque urged Slovenia to capitalize on the Philippines’ strengths in key sectors, including manufacturing and industrial development, technology and the digital economy, education and skills development, and sustainable business practices in the green economy.

“By investing in the Philippines, you are not only accessing a 110-million-strong domestic market but also engaging with over 680 million consumers, most of whom are young, with an average age of 25, and speak good English. Our participation in key trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, positions us as a strategic hub for businesses looking to expand in Asia,” the trade chief highlighted.

Secretary Roque further underscored President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s efforts to establish the Philippines as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. This growth is fueled by consistent gross domestic product growth, a resilient industrial base, a young and highly skilled labor force, and a large consumer sector.

The Philippine government is actively driving progressive policy reforms to enhance the business environment. Key initiatives include the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Law, a landmark development designed to stimulate foreign trade and investment.

Beyond the ongoing investments in infrastructure, digitalization, and sustainability, the government will conduct international investment roadshows following the approval of the CREATE MORE law’s implementing rules and regulations.

Illustrating the government’s proactive approach, Secretary Roque cited her recent engagements in Japan and the United States, where she secured positive feedback from all 16 companies.

“The active dialogue, ongoing agreements, and dynamic business-matching initiatives between the Philippines and Slovenia are advancing us towards shared economic prosperity,” Secretary Roque affirmed.

“Under the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ framework, these collaborative efforts will lead to a strong, vibrant, and lasting Philippines-Slovenia relationship,” the trade chief added. ♦

Date of release: 14 March 2025

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