THE five-year action plan for the Philippine semiconductor and electronics industry will focus on developing a skilled Filipino workforce to boost the local industry, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
In a statement, the department’s Special Task Force Office said the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council (Seiac), chaired by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (Osapiea), has laid out its Technical Working Group’s five-year action plan during the second meeting of the Seiac.
DTI said the main topic of the discussions was the development of a strong school-to-industry pipeline through closer collaboration among the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda), and industry partners.
‘The Council proposed flexible learning pathways-including ladderized programs and micro-credentials-aimed at equipping Filipinos with high-value technical skills that meet global industry standards,’ DTI said.
Chairing the meeting on behalf of Secretary Frederick D. Go was Osapiea Undersecretary Angel Ignacio who emphasized that strong human capital is the foundation of the industry’s long-term growth.
‘Investing in our people is the most critical component of building a resilient and globally competitive semiconductor industry,’ Ignacio said.
The DTI statement added that Osapiea highlighted that the council’s long-term goal is to nurture homegrown talent and encourage Filipinos to pursue careers in the country, strengthening both the industry and national development.
Beyond talent development, the council also discussed initiatives to enhance the country’s investment climate.
These include the development of world-class Strategic Economic Zones, supported by an ongoing infrastructure audit to identify gaps in power, water, and logistics.
In addition, the DTI said, the Seiac reviewed efforts to streamline regulations, promote ease of doing business, and showcase the Philippines semiconductor industry in the global market.
Further, the Trade department underscored that ‘The Council is looking to spearhead the country’s participation in Semicon Europa 2025, the premier European platform that brings together key players across the entire design and manufacturing value chain of the semiconductor and electronics industry.’
DTI said the Philippines’ participation in Semicon Europa is a ‘strategic’ move to diversify the country’s electronics export destinations, reducing reliance on traditional markets and aligning with Europe’s growing demand for alternative suppliers amid geopolitical shifts.
The council also noted that it will continue to ‘refine’ these action plans of their final adoption, according to DTI.