MUSCAT, OCT 3
The Sultanate of Oman and the Philippines have concluded negotiations on an investment protection agreement, with signing planned before the end of 2026, the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) said.
The Philippines-Oman Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement is intended to strengthen investor safeguards and encourage investment flows between the two countries.
The proposed framework includes provisions on fair treatment, protection against discriminatory measures and greater transparency for investors, the BOI said. These measures are designed to provide businesses with greater certainty when investing in either market.
BOI Governor Marjorie O Ramos-Samaniego led the Philippine delegation, accompanied by Director Elyjean DC Portoza and lawyer Kyla Mari F Samson.
The Philippines is seeking Omani investment in agribusiness, renewable energy, energy efficiency technologies, infrastructure and public-private partnership projects. Other priority areas include innovation, information technology and business process management, oil and gas, processed and speciality foods, including halal products and tourism.
The BOI said the agreement could also provide a basis for further economic cooperation, including a possible preferential trade arrangement to improve market access for goods from both countries.
Philippine Ambassador to Oman Noralyn Jubaira Baja said the conclusion of negotiations reflected closer bilateral ties and a shared commitment to promoting sustainable investment flows and creating opportunities for businesses.
Omani investment in the Philippines totalled $140,000 between 2021 and 2025, before reaching $800,000 in January 2026, according to figures cited by the BOI. The board expects the agreement to encourage further investment from the Sultanate of Oman.
Oman is home to about 47,000 Filipino workers, providing an established link between the two countries as they seek to expand their economic relationship beyond employment.
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