THE Muntinlupa City government has signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday, June 2, with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) to connect overseas Filipinos with investment, retirement and business opportunities in the city.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon said the partnership aligns with the local government's push to become a smart city while expanding its efforts to attract investors, including Filipinos who have settled abroad and are looking to reconnect with the country.
The agreement seeks to establish digital platforms and information channels that will allow overseas Filipinos to explore opportunities in Muntinlupa, ranging from investments and retirement options to local cultural and heritage initiatives.
CFO Chairman Dante Ang II said the agency, which is attached to the Office of the President, focuses on the welfare and interests of permanent and long-term Filipino migrants, distinct from overseas Filipino workers who are under the Department of Migrant Workers.
“Our commitment to Mayor Ruffy is that we will be their partner in linking Muntinlupa residents all over the world who want to invest, retire and visit your city,” Ang said.
He added that the CFO aims to help non-resident Filipinos identify places where they can invest, retire and maintain ties with their Filipino heritage while introducing Philippine culture to their children and grandchildren abroad.
The partnership is part of the CFO’s “Global Pinoy” initiative, which includes an online microsite where overseas Filipinos can access information on participating local governments and their investment opportunities.
Biazon said Muntinlupa has several advantages that could attract returning Filipinos and investors, including its location as Metro Manila’s southern gateway, access to major transport infrastructure, proximity to Laguna de Bay, and planned developments such as the New Bilibid Prison redevelopment project.
“We are not limited to foreign investors. Our fellow Filipinos who want to re-establish their linkage with the motherland are also part of our target. We see that Muntinlupa has an edge in that regard. If we encourage them to retire and invest here, I think we can offer that,” Biazon said.
He said the city offers a balance rarely found in Metro Manila, combining accessibility and economic opportunities with a less congested environment.
The mayor expressed confidence that the partnership would generate long-term benefits for the city by strengthening connections with overseas Filipinos and encouraging them to invest and relocate to Muntinlupa.
