US investment giant Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) is eyeing a bigger Philippine footprint, targeting fresh opportunities in infrastructure, fintech, energy, healthcare and advanced manufacturing as it explores financing projects under the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC).
David Petraeus, chairman of the KKR Global Institute, reaffirmed the firm’s interest in expanding its investments during a meeting with Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary Ma. Angela Ignacio, who represented Finance Secretary Frederick Go.
“ This is a young country, has grown fast, and needs infrastructure and other financing to do well,” Petraeus said, underscoring the Philippines’ demand for long-term capital.
KKR manages approximately $750 billion in assets globally and has already invested more than $2 billion in the Philippines, with exposure to digital finance, infrastructure and essential services.
The firm is now looking beyond its existing portfolio, identifying telecommunications, education, semiconductors, critical minerals, logistics and digital infrastructure as potential growth areas.
Discussions also focused on financing opportunities linked to the LEC, a strategic initiative designed to attract foreign investment, create jobs and develop high-value industries.
Ignacio cited progress in the corridor, including partnerships supporting artificial intelligence infrastructure, information and communications technology, and energy development.
The government is banking on investment reforms to bring in more foreign capital. Measures include the CREATE MORE Act, the Public-Private Partnership Code, the Investors’ Lease Act and Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, which aim to improve the business climate and accelerate strategic projects.
“Through strategic reforms aimed to streamline ease of doing business, we are committed to attract more partnerships to strengthen key industries and bolster our position as a top investment destination in the region,” Ignacio said.
KKR emphasized that sustained infrastructure spending, workforce development and predictable policies will be critical to unlocking further financing.
The renewed interest signals potential opportunities for the Philippines to draw more institutional capital into industries central to its long-term economic growth.
