San Francisco-based biotech startup Exin Therapeutics, Inc., backed by Y Combinator, is set to establish the Philippines’ first neurotherapeutics laboratory integrated with an AI-driven drug discovery platform, marking a breakthrough for the local biotechnology and life sciences sector.
The facility, scheduled to open in October 2025, was fast-tracked under the government’s Green Lane Certification for strategic investments. It will focus on developing genetic and circuit-level therapies for complex brain disorders, including epilepsy, autism, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and schizophrenia.
Founded by three Oxford-trained neuroscientists, Exin Therapeutics leverages the power of neuroscience, genetics, and artificial intelligence to accelerate drug discovery and redefine how brain disorders are treated.
“The Philippines offers a unique combination of scientific talent, cost efficiency, and a strong innovation environment,” said Ivan Lazarte, Exin’s Chief Scientific Officer. “We’re building more than a lab — we’re building the foundation for world-class neurotherapeutics research in Asia.”
The company will invest ₱45 million (USD 0.8 million) in its first phase (2025–2027) to construct a state-of-the-art research facility in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig. It will generate 35 high-value jobs for Filipino scientists and specialists trained in gene therapy and AI-driven drug discovery.
Using AAV-based gene delivery systems and AI-powered data analytics, the BGC lab aims to design and validate 10 new drug candidates per month, producing over 180,000 research data points by 2027.
In its second phase (2027–2029), Exin plans a ₱1 billion (USD 30 million) expansion in Clark, Pampanga, scaling capacity to 100 drug candidates monthly and creating over 500 direct and indirect jobs.
The project supports the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which identifies science, technology, and innovation as drivers of inclusive and sustainable economic growth. It also strengthens the country’s innovation ecosystem by advancing high-technology R&D and biotech capabilities.
Environmental sustainability is a core element of the project, with plans for energy-efficient systems, waste reduction measures, and potential solar integration in line with international green lab standards.
Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo lauded the initiative as a catalyst for knowledge transfer and high-value job creation.
“This investment goes beyond capital—it’s about empowering Filipino scientists and positioning the Philippines as a serious player in global biotech innovation,” Rodolfo said.
Through its One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI), the government continues to attract and support transformative projects that put the Philippines on the map as a biotech and R&D hub in Southeast Asia.