MAKATI CITY, Philippines — Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro joined Omani and Philippine officials at the Oman–Philippines 3: Strategic Majlis on July 26, 2026, as the two nations work to transform decades of labor ties into a broader economic partnership. The high‑level forum, held at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati, signals Cebu’s ambition to become a primary investment destination for Gulf capital.
A Majlis Built for Business
The Strategic Majlis convened senior Omani ministers, the Oman Investment Authority, and Philippine cabinet members alongside business leaders. The gathering marked a deliberate shift from a relationship historically anchored in overseas Filipino workers toward one driven by trade, joint ventures, and direct investment. Both sides mapped out concrete opportunities across agriculture, logistics, tourism, and renewable energy.
Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi led the Omani delegation, joined by Minister of Labour Dr. Mahad bin Said Al Baawain and officials from Oman’s sovereign wealth fund. Their presence signaled that Oman views the Philippines not merely as a labor source but as an emerging economic partner in Southeast Asia. The forum’s official emblem, unveiled during the event, symbolized the two nations’ shared commitment to a more integrated and prosperous future.
Cebu’s Front-Row Seat
Governor Baricuatro represented Cebu at the summit as the province sharpens its pitch to international investors. With its expanding infrastructure, skilled workforce, and booming tourism sector, Cebu is positioning itself as a logical entry point for Omani businesses exploring the Philippine market. The governor’s participation ensured that Cebu’s interests were placed directly before Gulf decision‑makers.
The province is actively courting partnerships in halal‑compliant food production, logistics hubs, and hospitality developments that align with Omani investment priorities. Cebu’s strategic location in the central Philippines offers efficient access to both domestic and regional markets. The governor’s presence at the Makati forum underscores the local government’s commitment to building direct economic bridges rather than waiting for national‑level initiatives to trickle down.
From Workers to Wealth
For decades, the Philippines and Oman were connected primarily by the thousands of Filipino nurses, engineers, and service workers employed in the Sultanate. The Majlis represents a conscious effort to leverage that longstanding people‑to‑people trust into institutional investment. Philippine Ambassador to Oman Noralyn Jubaira Baja noted that the goodwill generated by Filipino workers over the years now serves as a foundation for commercial diplomacy.
The Omani delegation highlighted logistics and connectivity as priority areas, with discussions centering on direct shipping routes and aviation links that could significantly cut transit times for Philippine exports to the Gulf. Agricultural cooperation featured prominently, particularly the development of halal‑certified supply chains that meet Oman’s food security goals. Tourism was also tabled as a two‑way opportunity, with both countries exploring dual‑destination marketing.
A Platform for Sustained Cooperation
The Strategic Majlis series, now in its third edition, has evolved into an institutionalized platform for economic diplomacy. The July 26 gathering came shortly after the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, reinforcing the region’s commitment to peaceful, rules‑based economic engagement. For the Philippines, the forum opens a channel to Gulf capital at a moment when global investors are diversifying their portfolios across emerging Asian markets.
As Cebu continues to strengthen its international partnerships, events like the Majlis provide a stage to showcase the province’s readiness for high‑level investment. The connections forged in Makati are expected to translate into site visits, feasibility studies, and eventual project launches that will generate jobs and stimulate local economies. Governor Baricuatro’s participation signals that Cebu is not just watching the conversation—it is helping to shape it.
