Philippines, US Boost Semiconductor Collaboration in Meeting with SIA Chief
Marcos Jr. Meets with US Semiconductor Leaders, Eyes Industry Growth
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to collaborating with the United States in bolstering the nation’s semiconductor industry during a meeting with the Semiconductor industry Association (SIA) on Monday.
Led by SIA president adn CEO John Neuffer, the delegation discussed the potential for growth and development in the Philippine semiconductor sector.Marcos Jr. highlighted the country’s existing expertise and infrastructure, stating, “We have the experience. We already have so many of the players in the country who are already doing the manufacturing and perhaps it’s just a question of developing it further.”
Recognizing the rapid pace of technological advancement, Marcos Jr. stressed the need for continuous adaptation. “The way technology goes is not something that you have a choice of, you just have to keep up,” he saeid.
The President also acknowledged the challenges posed by geopolitical shifts, noting, “We have all kinds of issues when it comes to digital space when it comes to planning our semiconductor industry. They are new and we’re trying to wrestle with how to deal with them. regrettably, geopolitics have become more critically important.”
Marcos Jr. commended the SIA for its active engagement with the Philippines, particularly its role in connecting member companies, which represent 80% of global chip manufacturing, with opportunities in the country.
This meeting follows Marcos Jr.’s November statement expressing the Philippines’ willingness to collaborate with the SIA in expanding semiconductor operations.
Neuffer highlighted the US government’s commitment to supporting this partnership,stating,”The State Department is spending $500 million for five years mostly on helping our friends and partners like the Philippines develop talent.” He specifically mentioned Arizona State University’s involvement in this initiative.
Neuffer praised the Philippine government’s dedication to the semiconductor industry, saying, “The participation of yoru government has been very rich… you’re taking it very seriously and we really appreciate it.”
The meaning of the semiconductor industry to the Philippine economy is evident in its export figures. In 2023, semiconductors and integrated circuits constituted the Philippines’ largest export to the US, amounting to US$3.1 billion,or 23.3% of total exports to the North American country.
Philippines Looks to US for Semiconductor Growth
Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with the Semiconductor Industry association (SIA) on Monday, signaling a strong commitment to bolstering the Philippines’ role in the global chip market.
President marcos Jr. emphasized the existing strengths of the Philippine Semiconductor Industry,stating,“We have the experience. We already have so many of the players in the country who are already doing the manufacturing and perhaps it’s just a question of developing it further.”
Recognizing the constant evolution of technology, President Marcos Jr. stressed the need for adaptation, saying, “The way technology goes is not something that you have a choice of, you just have to keep up.” He also acknowledged the complexities posed by geopolitical shifts, noting the importance of navigating these issues strategically.
SIA President and CEO John Neuffer reinforced the US government’s dedication to this partnership, announcing a $500 million investment over five years to bolster semiconductor talent development in partner countries like the Philippines. This initiative, led by Arizona State University, aims to support the Philippines’ ambitions within the sector.
Neuffer commended the Philippine government’s commitment, stating, “The participation of your government has been very rich… you’re taking it very seriously and we really appreciate it.”
This collaboration comes as the semiconductor industry is a key driver of the Philippine economy. In 2023, semiconductors and integrated circuits represented the country’s largest export to the US, reaching US$3.1 billion or 23.3% of total exports.
