The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the Philippines as a key player in the global artificial intelligence (AI) economy during the recent Pax Silica Summit in Washington, D.C.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang joined the Philippine delegation led by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, and private sector leaders to discuss strategic partnerships, future-ready infrastructure, and investments in AI, semiconductors, and advanced industries.
As the Philippines moves forward as Pax Silica’s 13th partner economy, participants discussed a proposed framework agreement targeted for completion this year to accelerate long-term investments in AI, digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
Among the summit’s key proposals was the development of a 4,000-acre AI-native industrial acceleration hub in New Clark City. The planned innovation ecosystem aims to attract global technology firms, anchor investors, and strategic partners, strengthening the country’s position as a regional center for AI, semiconductor, and advanced manufacturing industries.
Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go highlighted the need to prioritize investments in AI, semiconductors, digital infrastructure, and other future industries to boost the country’s competitiveness, while U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jacob Helberg underscored the value of international collaboration in building trusted AI ecosystems.
BCDA said the initiative supports the Bagong Pilipinas agenda by developing investment-ready smart cities, expanding the country’s innovation ecosystem, and creating more high-quality jobs for Filipinos.
