President Ferdinand Marcos Jr will attend the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said on Friday.

The race, one of the fixtures of the Formula One Grand Prix, is set on Sunday.

Castro said Marcos weas invited by Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong . Castro said that ''at these kinds of gatherings, they will not just be watching. There will be more discussions.''

Marcos told The Straits Times Facebook page that his presence in Singapore, where he is on a working visit until Sunday ''is a happy coincidence.''

''Because what happened with the Singapore F1 is that is has become such an event that all these events are scheduled around it,'' Marcos said.

His attendance has sparked criticism from progressive groups, who say the country is coming with economic woes and the flood control scandal.

Marcos attended the Forbes Global CEO Conference. Marcos said he would present during the gathering opportunities that the Philippines offers in digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced manufacturing, and highlight opportunities in infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and other sectors.

And aside from attracting investments, the President said the country has to build the infrastructure, energy capacity and technical expertise needed to sustain emerging industries.

Marcos’ itinerary also includes a visit to the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute to learn from Singapore’s experience in developing scientific and technical capabilities in nuclear technology and safety. PHS