MANILA – The Philippine government is stepping up efforts to expand the semiconductor and electronics (S&E) industry, a sector considered critical for exports, job creation, and overall economic progress.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto hosted a meeting with the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council (SEIAC) at Malacañan Palace on Monday, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to implementing the sector’s growth roadmap.
“The S&E industry is a cornerstone of the economy, generating about PHP3 trillion yearly and contributing significantly to exports,” Recto said. “It directly and indirectly provides jobs for roughly three million Filipinos, making it essential to national growth.”
Recto underscored initiatives to enhance the sector’s value chain, including integrated circuit design, advanced packaging, and the long-term goal of establishing domestic wafer fabrication facilities. The government also plans to set up at least three national laboratories to support research, innovation, and workforce development in partnership with educational institutions and private industry.
He emphasized strict monitoring of the roadmap, with clear deadlines, defined responsibilities, and coordinated inter-agency action. Recto also urged companies to fully utilize incentives under the CREATE MORE Law, including income tax holidays and duty exemptions.
“Not all challenges need new legislation. Many require clear instructions, streamlined coordination, and faster processing,” Recto said. “Incentives must be consistent, customs procedures efficient, and skills development forward-looking.”
The SEIAC, established through Administrative Order 31 in 2025, serves as a platform for both government and industry leaders to enhance the Philippines’ S&E sector’s competitiveness. Recto described the council as a “solution-oriented body with an economic mission,” aiming to produce tangible outcomes rather than just discussions.
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