The International Technology Security & Innovation (ITSI) recently announced the Philippines is launching a series of strategic kick-off sessions to advance its role in the global semiconductor industry, focusing on workforce development and public policy.
These sessions are part of the ITSI Fund, a key initiative of the CHIPS and Science Act, designed to enhance semiconductor capabilities and supply chain resilience worldwide.
Organized by the U.S. Department of State and Arizona State University (ASU) with the Board of Investments, the kick-off sessions will bring together key stakeholders from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA), Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) local government officials, ATP industry leaders, and academic representatives from top engineering and technology universities and vocational colleges, to identify the Philippines’ strengths and challenges in the semiconductor sector and formulate action plans to enhance its capabilities.
The Philippines is one of six strategic countries selected for this initiative, along with Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Indonesia, and the Vietnam, all supported by the U.S. Department of State.
The Department awarded ASU USD13.8 million to drive talent development and formulate public policy recommendations across these nations.
“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 workshops are designed to develop a skilled workforce and create a supportive policy environment to attract investment and innovation in the semiconductor industry sector. These efforts are in alignment with the ITSI Fund’s goals to diversify and expand global semiconductor Assembly, Testing, and Packaging (ATP) capabilities, ensuring a robust and resilient supply chain.
“The impact of this program goes beyond the semiconductor industry—it is a driving force for the entire Philippine economy,” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque explained. “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.”
As part of this initiative, ASU has launched the portal https://itsi-skillsaccelerator.org, offering free courses to students interested in the semiconductor industry. The platform also provides opportunities for faculty members to receive certifications in semiconductor technology, acting as a hub for individuals and institutions eager to engage with this critical field.
These efforts align with the broader goals of the Philippines to position the country at the forefront of technology and innovation. By nurturing talent and enhancing policy frameworks, the Philippines is set to attract new investments and partnerships, contributing to the global semiconductor ecosystem’s resilience and growth.
