Philippines Launches Workshops to Boost Semiconductor Industry

The Philippines has kicked off a series of workforce development and public policy workshops to strengthen its role in the global semiconductor industry.

The project is part of the International Technology Security & Innovation (ITSI) Fund, a key component of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at enhancing semiconductor capabilities and ensuring supply chain resilience.

Organized by the U.S. Department of State and Arizona State University (ASU) in collaboration with the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI), the sessions bring together major stakeholders, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), alongside industry leaders and academia.

The goal is to address the Philippines’ strengths and challenges in the semiconductor sector while formulating strategies to boost its capabilities.

“This initiative represents a significant leap forward for the Philippines’ semiconductor industry. It not only strengthens our global ties with the United States but also sets the stage for the Philippines to become a critical contributor to the global semiconductor supply chain,” Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo said.

The Philippines is one of six countries chosen for this initiative, alongside Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

The U.S. Department of State awarded ASU $13.8 million to spearhead talent development and policy recommendations across these nations, underscoring the Philippines’ importance as a strategic partner in advancing global semiconductor assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP) capabilities.

“The impact of this program goes beyond the semiconductor industry—it is a driving force for the entire Philippine economy. As we invest in our people and build a welcoming environment for investors, the Philippines is on track to becoming a leading destination for semiconductor manufacturing and innovation,” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said.

The initiative supports the Philippine government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts investment.

Assistant Secretary for Investment Affairs Marvin Jason N. Bayang, speaking on behalf of Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick D. Go, stressed the importance of harnessing the semiconductor sector’s potential.

“The government is undertaking several key initiatives such as instituting a conducive policy environment, enhancing ease of doing business, streamlining processes, accelerating infrastructure development, expanding access to capital markets, pursuing upskilling and reskilling opportunities, offering incentives, and identifying strategic areas for investments.”

As part of the initiative, ASU has launched an online portal, ITSI Skills Accelerator (https://itsi-skillsaccelerator.org), which offers free courses for students interested in semiconductor technology.

The platform also provides faculty certification opportunities, allowing institutions and individuals to engage with the semiconductor field more effectively.

“This collaboration goes beyond mere technological progress; it reflects a mutual dedication to promoting sustainable growth and prosperity through innovation. By working together, we can guarantee that the advantages of technological advancements are accessible to all, reinforcing our economies and the democratic values we share,” ITSI Senior Coordinator Virginia Kent said.

The workshops are a key step in the Philippines’ broader strategy to position itself at the forefront of global technology and innovation, with semiconductor development being a crucial component of this plan.

By investing in talent development and improving policy frameworks, the Philippines aims to attract new investments and strengthen its position in the rapidly growing semiconductor industry.

“This partnership creates invaluable opportunities for students and professionals in the Philippines to acquire advanced skills in semiconductor technology. ASU is proud to contribute to the Philippines’ path toward becoming a major player in this rapidly evolving industry,” Jeffrey Goss, Principal Investigator of the ITSI Program at ASU said.