MAKATI CITY — Mitsubishi Corporation’s US$700-million investment in Ayala Corporation, finalized through a definitive agreement signed on September 21, 2026, signals deepening confidence in the Philippine economy and directly reinforces the development of the country’s first Intelligent City in Makati. The transaction, valued at approximately ₱44.5 billion, will raise Mitsubishi’s economic ownership in Ayala from 4.7 percent to 15 percent and its voting stake to 20 percent. For Makati, the investment provides a significant boost to the urban innovation initiatives already taking shape within the city’s central business district.
A Landmark Partnership Rooted in Shared Vision
The expanded alliance between Ayala and Mitsubishi builds on a relationship that spans more than five decades. Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala described the transaction as “much more than a capital investment,” emphasizing that it reflects a deep alignment in values, long-term thinking, and responsible business stewardship. Ayala President and CEO Cezar P. Consing added that the partnership is designed to “turbo-charge a 52-year relationship” by combining Mitsubishi’s global reach and technology with Ayala’s diversified Philippine assets. The two groups intend to deepen collaboration in sectors critical to national development, including infrastructure, energy transition, real estate, digital technologies, mobility, and logistics.
Makati as the Pilot for Intelligent City Innovation
At the heart of this partnership is the Intelligent City initiative, which will be implemented initially in Makati City. Through a memorandum of understanding signed in Tokyo in May 2026, Ayala Corporation, Globe Telecom, Mitsubishi Corporation, and KDDI Corporation committed to studying and developing data-driven urban platforms that utilize artificial intelligence, Internet of Things technologies, and advanced connectivity. These systems aim to improve transportation, retail and commercial services, energy management, and digital city services, with the possibility of expansion to other Philippine urban centers. Makati’s selection as the pilot site reflects its status as the country’s premier business district and its readiness to serve as a testing ground for next-generation urban solutions.
Expanding Digital Financial Services Through GCash
The investment also strengthens the expansion of digital financial services through GCash, the Philippines’ leading consumer finance app. Mitsubishi and MUFG had previously invested US$700 million in Mynt, the operator of GCash, and the new agreements will further integrate the platform into Ayala and Mitsubishi’s business ecosystems across retail, real estate, energy, mobility, and digital services. The collaboration focuses on developing better digital payment systems, lending services, investment products, and stronger online security, with the goal of advancing financial inclusion for millions of Filipinos. This expansion complements the Intelligent City initiative by ensuring that residents and businesses can seamlessly access digital services within the evolving urban environment.
