The provincial government of Bataan is stepping up efforts to position the province as a hub for advanced technology manufacturing, following the successful staging of the 1Bataan Semiconductor and Electronics Summit 2025 on December 19.
The summit brought together leaders from government, industry, and academe to discuss strategies and investment opportunities aimed at building a competitive semiconductor and electronics ecosystem in the province.
In his keynote address, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo highlighted the sector’s importance to the Philippine economy, noting that semiconductor and electronics products account for more than half of the country’s merchandise exports.
“The semiconductor and electronics sector remains a cornerstone of our industrial strategy. Bataan’s proactive approach and strong fundamentals make it an attractive destination for global players,” Rodolfo said.
The summit was hosted by Rep. Maria Angela Garcia, who emphasized Bataan’s readiness to support investors through infrastructure development, policy support, and public-private collaboration.
“Bataan is prepared to provide the environment needed for high-value industries to grow—one that benefits both businesses and local communities through sustainable development,” Garcia said.
Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia III presented the province’s investment proposition, citing its strategic location near major economic corridors, reliable infrastructure, skilled workforce, and ongoing investments in renewable energy and logistics. He said these strengths, combined with investor-friendly local policies, position Bataan as a competitive site for high-tech manufacturing.
Officials from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA) also expressed support for the province’s initiative, particularly in workforce development and investment facilitation.
Bataan has seen a growing presence of investment promotion agencies and major locators, supported by an enabling business environment that encourages industry expansion.
The Philippines’ semiconductor and electronics industry remains a major contributor to global supply chains, accounting for 58% of total merchandise exports, or about US$45.3 billion as of November 2025, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Globally, the semiconductor market is projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030, according to PwC’s Global Semiconductor Industry Outlook.
Provincial officials said Bataan will continue to focus on partnerships, workforce capability-building, and sustainable infrastructure to strengthen its role in the country’s industrial development.