Protesters clash with security as Marcos pitches Luzon Economic Corridor

MANILA — Tensions escalated outside the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bonifacio Global City on Thursday as protesters gathered to voice opposition to the Luzon Economic Corridor Investment Forum, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was attending.

Activists carrying placards and banners staged demonstrations against the massive infrastructure and development initiative, which aims to integrate economic zones across the northern island of Luzon. The protest reflected deepening divisions over the government's plans to court international investors for the project.

The Luzon Economic Corridor represents one of the Marcos administration's flagship development schemes, designed to spur economic growth and attract foreign direct investment. The investment forum brought together international business representatives and government officials to promote opportunities within the planned corridor.

Thursday's demonstration is the latest in a series of public actions questioning the project's impact on local communities and environmental concerns. Organizers have raised questions about potential displacement of residents and land acquisition methods as the corridor moves forward.

The government has maintained that the initiative is essential for boosting economic competitiveness and creating employment opportunities across the region. Officials said the forum proceeded as scheduled despite the protests outside the venue.