Cebu City, Philippines — People’s Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro praised the contributions of Japanese companies operating in Cebu, describing them as excellent employers and strong partners in the province’s economic growth.
She gave this recognition during a courtesy visit on August 12 by Hideaki Matsuo, Consul General of Japan in Cebu. The meeting underscored the enduring friendship between Cebu and Japan, with both sides expressing commitment to deepen collaboration, particularly in the areas of investment, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Our Japanese partners have always been known for their discipline, efficiency, and care for their employees. They have enriched Cebu’s business landscape and created opportunities for many Cebuanos,” Gov. Baricuatro said during the visit.
Japanese Presence in Cebu’s Economy
Japanese businesses have long played a vital role in Cebu’s industrial and service sectors. From manufacturing and electronics to real estate and services, Japanese companies have been a consistent source of jobs and training opportunities for locals.
The Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) have both noted Cebu’s attractiveness to Japanese investors due to its strategic location, skilled workforce, and strong logistics support (BOI, JETRO).
Several Cebu-based Japanese firms, particularly in the Mactan Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), employ thousands of workers in electronics, garments, and precision industries. Their reputation as reliable employers aligns with Governor Baricuatro’s remarks.
Strengthening Cebu–Japan Friendship
Consul General Matsuo expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from the Capitol and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to its longstanding friendship with Cebu.
“Cebu is an important hub for Japanese businesses. We are thankful for the province’s support and openness to our community,” Matsuo shared.
In response, Gov. Baricuatro assured him that her administration will continue to strengthen ties not only in investment and trade but also in cultural exchange, education, and tourism.
Investment Opportunities in Cebu
Under Governor Baricuatro’s leadership, the Capitol has prioritized attracting investments that balance economic growth with sustainability.
Japanese firms remain a key target because of their proven record in:
- Technology transfer — sharing expertise with Cebuano workers.
- Responsible labor practices — ensuring safe and fair work conditions.
- Sustainability — promoting energy-efficient and eco-friendly practices in industries.
Gov. Baricuatro emphasized that Cebu is not only open for investment but also committed to creating a business-friendly environment through infrastructure upgrades, digitalization of services, and strengthened partnerships with the private sector.
Discipline and Community Development
One reason Japanese companies thrive in Cebu is the shared cultural values between Japan and the Philippines. Traits such as discipline, respect for hierarchy, and commitment to quality resonate strongly with Cebuano workers.
Many Japanese employers also extend their role beyond business by supporting community development projects, including scholarships, livelihood assistance, and disaster response efforts.
The governor highlighted these initiatives as examples of responsible investment that align with her administration’s vision of inclusive progress.
Japan as a Top Investor in the Philippines
Japan remains one of the Philippines’ largest investors and trade partners. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Japan is consistently among the country’s top three sources of foreign direct investment (FDI), with billions poured into electronics, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects (PSA).
In Cebu, Japanese investments have fueled the growth of export-oriented industries, turning the province into a hub for high-value products shipped worldwide.
Opportunities for Expansion
Gov. Baricuatro and Consul General Matsuo discussed potential areas for expanding Cebu–Japan cooperation:
- Healthcare and medical technology — tapping Japanese expertise to modernize Cebu’s hospitals.
- Tourism and hospitality — attracting more Japanese visitors through cultural exchanges and joint promotions.
- Education partnerships — linking Cebu’s universities with Japanese institutions for research and student exchange.
- Green industries — developing renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure with Japanese firms as partners.
The governor noted that these sectors fit within Cebu’s development roadmap, which focuses on jobs, innovation, and sustainability.
Capitol’s Broader Vision for Investments
The courtesy visit aligns with Capitol’s ongoing efforts to position Cebu as a leading destination for responsible and future-ready investments.
Earlier this year, the provincial government engaged in dialogues with domestic and international investors to push for projects that create long-term value for communities. Gov. Baricuatro stressed that while Cebu welcomes foreign capital, it must always respect local communities and environmental standards.
The meeting between Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Consul General Hideaki Matsuo was more than a diplomatic courtesy call. It symbolized Cebu’s readiness to build on its historic ties with Japan while opening new doors for investment and collaboration.
By recognizing Japanese companies as models of responsible employers and pledging to nurture stronger partnerships, Gov. Baricuatro sent a clear message: Cebu’s growth story is stronger when built on trust, friendship, and shared values with its international partners.
