As the Philippine-British Business Council (PBBC) approaches its 30th anniversary, the organization is experiencing unprecedented growth in bilateral trade and investment opportunities under the leadership of its new London Chairman, Joseph Miro. The latest figures show UK exports to the Philippines reached £1.3 billion, a 16% increase, while imports rose by 22% to £1.7 billion in the year ending Q3 2023. Services accounted for about 40% of UK exports. In 2021, UK outward direct investment to the Philippines amounted to £449 million, with inward investment also on the rise.
In 2024, the PBBC welcomed Dr. Gabriella Tuason Quimson and Mr. Stephen Phillips as new members. Dr. Quimson, an expert in governance and anti-corruption, holds dual citizenship and has extensive experience in the UK. Mr. Phillips, a seasoned professional in cross-border trade, investment, and finance in Asia, was recently appointed Senior Adviser at BDO Unibank.
The PBBC, a business-led apolitical entity, collaborates closely with the trade and investment departments of both the UK and Philippine governments. It receives substantial non-financial support from the Philippine Embassy in London and the British Embassy and British Chamber of Commerce in Manila. The council’s members, all volunteers, collectively bring over 100 years of experience in trading conditions and contacts. The PBBC focuses on sectors with significant opportunities, such as IT, agribusiness, energy, and retail, aligning its priorities with those identified by both governments.
The council offers free advisory services in the UK to companies new to the market and welcomes inquiries from British firms interested in the Philippine market and vice versa. The PBBC aims to facilitate exports, joint partnerships, and direct investments, promoting long-term market engagement between the two nations.
