The Business Roundtable on Philippine Infrastructure Flagship Projects, held at the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, served as a high-level platform for Dutch businesses, financial institutions, and government agencies to explore investment opportunities in the Philippines’ €24 billion infrastructure pipeline for 2025.

The event, organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) Brussels in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in The Hague and the Philippine-Netherlands Business Council (PNBC), brought together key Dutch industry players in engineering, flood risk management, and sustainable infrastructure.

Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) led the Philippine delegation, presenting 42 flagship projects in roads, expressways, flood control, and climate-resilient infrastructure that are open for Dutch participation.

“The Netherlands is not just a valued trade and investment partner—it is a leader in sustainable infrastructure and water management,” said Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya. The Netherlands has played a key role in Philippine infrastructure development through its participation in past and ongoing projects, including the Bulacan International Airport, flood risk management initiatives, and sustainable urban planning collaborations. “We are eager to strengthen this partnership by facilitating clear investment pathways and financing solutions for Dutch firms,” he added.

Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain emphasized that Dutch businesses have a competitive edge in addressing the Philippines’ infrastructure needs, particularly in flood control, transport connectivity, and water security.

“The Philippines is open for business—and we want Dutch companies to be part of our infrastructure transformation,” said Sadain. “With Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), Official Development Assistance (ODA), and bilateral financing mechanisms, there are multiple ways for Dutch investors to engage in critical infrastructure projects that will deliver long-term value.”

The open forum moderated by PNBC Chair Saskia de Lang was actively participated by key Dutch companies such as Royal HaskoningDHV, Janson Bridging, ING, and Rijkswaterstaat, as well as representatives from the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Dutch Embassy in Manila. Discussions focused on investment procedures, project financing, and strategic collaboration opportunities.

“The business roundtable does not end here. Our engagement continues, and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) stands ready to provide further information, facilitate connections with DPWH and other government agencies involved in the 186 infrastructure flagship projects, and assist Dutch businesses in navigating Philippine infrastructure projects,” said Commercial Counsellor Magnolia Misolas-Ashley.

Opportunities for Dutch Businesses and Financing Institutions

⦿ Expanding Infrastructure Pipeline – The Philippines is accelerating investment in roads, flood protection, and transport projects included in the country’s major infrastructure plan.

⦿ Flood Risk Management and Climate Adaptation – Dutch firms like Royal HaskoningDHV are already engaged in ADB-assisted flood risk management master plans several major river basis. for the Agno River Basin (Pangasinan, Tarlac), Mag-Asawang Tubig River Basin (Mindoro), and Cadac-an River Basin (Leyte). These projects align with Dutch expertise in water management and nature-based solutions.

⦿ Access to Dutch Government Financing – The Dutch side confirmed bilateral financing mechanisms with the Dutch government, including export credit financing and blended financial instruments for Dutch companies investing in Philippine infrastructure.

⦿ Technology and Innovation in Infrastructure – Dutch companies were also invited to introduce (i.e., submit unsolicited proposals) such as smart infrastructure solutions, advanced dredging technologies, and sustainable engineering innovations to enhance Philippine urban resilience.