SOUTH KOREAN companies are looking to invest in the “Build, Build, Build” program to help address the country’s infrastructure constraints, Seoul’s Ambassador to the Philippines Han Dong-Man said at an investment forum Wednesday.

“ASEAN is one of the most dynamic and promising regions in the world but is held back from realizing its full potential by huge constraints in infrastructure caused by the lack of investment,” he said in his speech at the Korea-ASEAN Project Plaza conference.

He said that several multilateral development Banks favor the ASEAN region in providing aid and loans for infrastructure projects.

He has approached South Korean companies to provide new technologies, technical knowledge, and enter into project partnerships.

“I asked them to invest, invest, invest in the Philippines in accordance with President Duterte’s ‘Build, Build, Build’” he said.

He said that there are opportunities in the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, adding that South Korea can help improve digital connectivity within ASEAN.

“I believe that improving the infrastructure linkages is a cornerstone for building and improving the ASEAN Community.”

During her presentation, Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Maria Catalina E. Cabral outlined the development of highways, bridges, and airports under the “Build, Build, Build.”

She said the administration’s development plan creates urban and rural linkages, improves access to social services, improves local and international connectivity, and promotes sustainable development. — Jenina P. Ibañez