Quantum Computing Ecosystem Planned at UP Visayas

A quantum computing ecosystem is set to be established at the University of the Philippines Visayas (UP Visayas).

UP Visayas Chancellor Clement Camposano and Qubits Ventures Managing Partner Nardo Manoloto engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on the initiative.

IBM describes quantum computing as “an emergent field of cutting-edge computer science harnessing the unique qualities of quantum mechanics to solve problems beyond the ability of even the most powerful classical computers.”

The field of quantum computing encompasses various disciplines, including quantum hardware and quantum algorithms. While still in development, quantum technology will soon be able to solve complex problems that supercomputers either cannot solve or cannot solve fast enough.

By leveraging quantum physics, fully realized quantum computers could process massively complex problems at speeds exponentially faster than modern machines. For a quantum computer, challenges that might take a classical computer thousands of years to complete could be reduced to mere minutes.

As managing partner at Qubits Ventures, Manaloto leads strategic investments in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, data innovations, and next-generation computing technologies. His investment philosophy combines deep technical knowledge with practical implementation experience, enabling portfolio companies to successfully transition from early-stage development to market deployment.

The development of a quantum computing ecosystem at UP Visayas may involve establishing a quantum computing program to supplement the Computer Science Program of the College of Arts and Sciences, conducting research and development on quantum computing applications, and setting up a quantum computing hardware manufacturing facility at the Science and Technology Park at the university’s Miagao campus. These efforts aim to create a talent pool to position Iloilo as a global quantum computing hub, generate well-paying jobs, and establish a high-value manufacturing base benefiting Iloilo and its residents.

If the initiative progresses after the necessary internal consultations, the next steps will involve hosting a forum to introduce quantum computing and its real-world applications to the Iloilo community, followed by the formalization of the partnership between UP Visayas and Qubits Ventures. This is tentatively scheduled for March.

Qubits Ventures also hopes to assist UP Visayas in becoming one of the first entities in the country to have its soon-to-be-completed fiber optic network quantum-safe, enhancing its cybersecurity infrastructure.

The discussions were facilitated by the Institute of Contemporary Economics (ICE) and the SAMA US Foundation, an investment consolidator undertaking multiple projects in Iloilo and Guimaras in collaboration with ICE.