The Luzon Economic Corridor is emerging as the centerpiece of a renewed investment offensive between the Philippines and the United States, following commitments made at the 12th Philippines–US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue in Manila on February 16.
Senior officials from both governments framed economic security as inseparable from national security, pledging to accelerate commercial diplomacy and mobilize private capital in strategic industries. The meeting coincides with milestones in bilateral ties, including 80 years of diplomatic relations and 75 years of alliance cooperation.
In a joint statement released by the US Embassy in Manila, the two sides announced plans to hold the first LEC Investment Forum in Manila in 2026. The forum aims to unlock fresh capital flows and expand private sector participation, in coordination with Japan and other like minded partners.
Envisioned as a growth spine across Luzon, the corridor will link transport, logistics, energy and advanced manufacturing. It is also expected to support defense co production and reinforce regional deterrence in the Indo Pacific.
Energy security featured prominently in the talks. Both governments committed to developing reliable power infrastructure capable of sustaining manufacturing hubs, data centers and emerging technology ventures within the corridor.
Cooperation on civil nuclear energy will include technical assistance, a trade mission for US nuclear firms and 1.5 million dollars to establish a small modular reactor control room simulator in the Philippines.
Beyond energy, Manila and Washington agreed to deepen coordination on transport, digital infrastructure, agribusiness and health security.
First convened in 2011, the dialogue remains the primary platform for aligning political, security and economic priorities as both sides position the Luzon Economic Corridor as a cornerstone of alliance driven growth.
