DTI, Google Partner to Boost PH Digital Investments

JEJU, SOUTH KOREA — As part of the Philippines’ digital transformation priorities, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque met with global tech leader Google on May 15 to explore strategic opportunities to boost the country’s digital infrastructure and capabilities.

Held on the sidelines of the APEC MRT 2025, the meeting focused on advancing data center infrastructure, improving internet connectivity, and expanding cooperation in digital workforce development.

The initiative supports the government’s broader effort to attract high-value investments aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s digital transformation agenda.

“The Philippines stands ready to be a vital partner in the global digital value chain,” Roque said.

“With our young, tech-savvy population and rapidly strengthening infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for inclusive innovation and sustainable growth.”

Roque highlighted the Philippines’ strategic role in the global value chain, noting key exports such as electronics, semiconductors, machinery and equipment.

She also cited the country’s capacity to support advanced manufacturing for technology companies like Google.

The trade secretary praised Google’s ongoing contribution to the Philippines’ digital landscape, particularly in subsea internet cable development and support for the IT-BPM sector.

Since launching operations in the Philippines in 2013, Google has supported global functions through customer and operational support services.

With a population of 110 million and high digital consumption, the Philippines is becoming a strategic destination for hyperscaler companies.

The government enhances this investment climate through pro-investment incentives under the CREATE MORE law and a robust digital backbone.

This includes 19 international subsea cable systems, 13 cable landing stations, more than 840,000 kilometers of domestic fiber optic rollout, and 25 operating commercial data centers with a combined rack capacity of 19,000.

Roque reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting hyperscaler operations through talent development, intellectual property protection, and stronger data privacy and cybersecurity policies.

On workforce development, Roque commended Google’s partnership with DTI on digital skills training through the Google Career Certificates program.

Launched in 2024, the initiative is implemented across more than 1,300 Negosyo Centers in 16 regions.

Roque encouraged deeper collaboration between DTI and Google to strengthen capacity-building programs for Philippine MSMEs, especially women and youth entrepreneurs.

“MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy,” she said.

“Empowering them with digital tools ensures no one is left behind in the country’s innovation journey.”

Looking ahead to the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2026, Roque invited Google to serve as a key partner in advancing regional digital priorities.

She emphasized the need for collaboration on digital inclusion, cross-border e-commerce, and cybersecurity in Southeast Asia.

Joining the meeting were Google Vice President and Global Head of Government Affairs Karan Bhatia; Google Cloud Southeast Asia Public Policy Head Su Ann Lim; Asia Pacific Head of Trade Policy Darry Lim; and Philippine Trade and Investment Center–Seoul Commercial Attaché Charmaine Mignon S. Yalong.

DTI remains committed to working with global technology leaders like Google to strengthen the Philippines’ position as a competitive regional hub for digital infrastructure and innovation.

Through strategic collaboration and supportive policies, the government aims to drive inclusive, sustainable digital growth and economic opportunity.