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.

According to Roque, supermarkets inspected were fully compliant with the automatic price freeze covering essential goods such as sardines, instant noodles, bread, coffee, processed milk, salt, bottled water, candles, and laundry soap.

“Iyong mga presyong na-monitor natin ngayon are even below the prices set by the DTI, so maganda itong balita dahil sumusunod ang mga grocery at supermarket sa direktiba ng ating Pangulo tungkol sa nationwide price freeze for the next 60 days,” the trade chief said.

Roque, accompanied by central and regional officials, inspected several major retail establishments including Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall in Talisay, GMall Supermarket on Soriano Avenue, SM Supermarket in Mabolo, and Pacific Mall Metro Supermarket in Mandaue. The team reported no major violations and observed sufficient inventory levels throughout all stores visited.

To strengthen consumer protection during the 60-day price freeze period, DTI has mobilized monitoring teams nationwide to conduct daily field inspections, particularly in typhoon-affected communities. As of November 10, the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) also reported stable prices and adequate supply in Metro Manila after checking 75 firms across various districts.

Under Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, prices of basic necessities automatically revert to prevailing levels and remain frozen for 60 days in areas declared under a state of calamity.

Businesses found violating the automatic price freeze may face administrative and criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines of up to ₱1 million. Establishments selling beyond the mandated prevailing prices will be issued a Notice of Violation and required to submit a response within 48 hours.

Convened ahead of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), the AMM carried the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow Together,” underscoring this year’s priorities under the Republic of Korea’s chairmanship—Connect, Innovate, and Prosper.

Ministers recognized the profound structural and technological transformations reshaping the global economy, emphasizing the need for deeper cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital trade, and green innovation to drive sustainable growth.

Representing the Philippines, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty co-led the delegation as the country’s Foreign Minister and Alternate Minister Responsible for Trade, respectively.

Speaking on behalf of DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, Undersecretary Gepty underscored the importance of resilient and innovative supply chains in ensuring regional stability and inclusive prosperity.

“Building resilient supply chains is now a prerequisite for stability, security, and inclusive growth,” Gepty said. “The Philippines supports APEC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience through innovation, promote trusted and interoperable digital ecosystems, and revitalize the multilateral trading system.”

The AMM, which concludes the series of sectoral ministerial meetings held throughout the APEC year, sets the tone for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting to be attended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on October 31 and November 1.

As APEC 2025 Chair, Korea is spearheading efforts to deliver key outcomes, particularly in developing frameworks on artificial intelligence governance and demographic change to ensure the region’s long-term competitiveness and social resilience.

For the Philippines, the AMM discussions resonate strongly with the government’s drive to advance digital transformation, inclusive trade, and innovation-led growth. Strengthening regional collaboration in these areas is expected to open new pathways for Filipino enterprises, workers, and communities to thrive in the evolving Asia-Pacific economy.

On October 29, DTI officials conducted an inspection in Makati City, checking the prices and supply levels of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) such as candles and bottled water, items in high demand during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

The inspection revealed that all 224 stock-keeping units (SKUs) of monitored goods were within the DTI’s suggested retail price (SRP), reflecting stable market conditions.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized that the activity underscores the agency’s ongoing commitment to consumer protection and market stability.

“We commend our retailers for upholding fair prices in the interest and welfare of our consumers. Rest assured that the DTI will continue to diligently monitor the markets to keep prices affordable while also ensuring that our businesses remain sustainable and profitable, so that it will be a win-win for all,” Secretary Roque said.

Since the start of October, the DTI has inspected 19 flower shops to ensure compliance with SRPs and to encourage vendors to maintain reasonable pricing amid increased demand.

As Chairperson of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), Secretary Roque also joined Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in monitoring wet markets, checking the prices of rice, meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables across 10 market stalls.

These activities form part of the DTI–DA joint efforts to safeguard price stability and supply adequacy of essential commodities nationwide. To date, both agencies have conducted 23 joint market monitoring operations this year, reinforcing their shared goal of keeping consumer goods affordable while supporting fair and responsible business practices.

Apart from that, DTI also assured the public that a steady supply of basic goods is available and that it is actively working with manufacturers to keep prices reasonable. The proactive measure is being put in place to prevent a possible increase in fuel prices due to the heightened conflict between Iran and Israel.

“We understand that even slight increases in the prices of basic goods can be felt deeply by ordinary Filipino families. This is why, in line with President Marcos Jr.’s directive, we are stepping up our nationwide monitoring efforts and working closely with industry players to prevent any unjustified price hikes,” Secretary Roque said. 

The DTI’s collaboration with local government units and other agencies includes implementing price stabilization measures to ensure essential products remain accessible and affordable.  

The latest Suggested Retail Price (SRP) Bulletin is accessible on the DTI website. Consumers are urged to report retailers, distributors, and manufacturers selling above the SRPs via One-DTI (1-384) Hotline or email, ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph or ReporttoSec@dti.gov.ph. 

Held at the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation-Ministers Responsible for Trade (APEC-MRT) 2025, the meeting focused on advancing data center infrastructure and internet connectivity, and deepening cooperation in digital workforce development. This initiative reflects the government’s broader efforts to attract high-value investments aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s digital transformation agenda.

“The Philippines stands ready to be a vital partner in the global digital value chain. With our young, tech-savvy population, and rapidly strengthening infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for inclusive innovation and sustainable growth,” Secretary Roque said in a news release.

Secretary Roque also noted the Philippines’ strategic role in the global value chain, citing the country’s top exports which include electronics, semiconductors, machinery, and equipment. Additionally, she highlighted the Philippines’ capacity to support advanced manufacturing for tech giants like Google.

The trade chief also lauded Google’s continued contribution to the country’s digital landscape, particularly its investments in subsea internet cable development and the IT-BPM sector.

Since establishing its operations in the Philippines in 2013, Google Philippines has supported the company’s global functions through customer and operational support services.

With a population of 110 million and strong digital consumption habits, the Philippines is poised to become a strategic destination for hyperscaler companies. The government further bolsters this investment climate through pro-investment incentives under the CREATE MORE law and the country’s robust digital backbone. These include 19 international subsea cable systems, 13 cable landing stations, over 840,000 kilometers of domestic fiber optic rollout, and 25 operating commercial data centers with a combined rack capacity of 19,000.

In the meeting, Secretary Roque further reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to supporting hyperscaler operations by advancing proactive measures. These include talent development, intellectual property protection, and data privacy and cybersecurity policies promotion.

On workforce development, Secretary Roque commended Google’s partnership with the DTI in advancing digital skills through the Google Career Certificates (GCC) program. Rolled out in 2024, the initiative is being implemented through over 1,300 Negosyo Centers across 16 regions.

The trade secretary also urged deepening the partnership between DTI and Google to support capacity and capability-building programs for MSMEs in the Philippines, with a focus on women and youth entrepreneurs.

“MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy. Empowering them with digital tools and capabilities ensures that no one is left behind in the country’s innovation journey,” Secretary Roque said.

Looking ahead to the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026, Secretary Roque invited Google to be a key partner in championing regional digital priorities, highlighting that digital inclusion, cross-border e-commerce, and cybersecurity across Southeast Asia requires bold collaboration.

This is among the key provisions of the newly signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the DTI, which aims to strengthen the convergence between the two agencies in support of tourism-linked industries and the development of MSMEs. 

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque led the ceremonial signing of the agreement at the DOT Office in Makati City on Monday (Apr. 7), with DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and DTI Chief-of-staff Englebert Chua serving as witnesses. 

In addition to access to financing programs for tourism sector enterprises through the DTI’s financing arm, the Small Business (SB) Corporation, the agreement also covers joint trade and tourism missions, development of sustainable tourism-related enterprises and MSMEs, and promotion of tourism investments on both domestic and global platforms. It also seeks to boost the production of local talents and products in tourism-related facilities, attractions, and destinations, among others.

Delivering her remarks at the auspicious occasion, Secretary Frasco stressed on the role of the agreement in reviving the symbiotic relationship of tourism and trade and, noting the interdependence between the two sectors which exists several years back, with DOT having been part of the Department of Trade and Industry before being created a separate office in 1973. 

“In many ways, tourism is the gateway that introduces the world to the diverse array of products, culture, and talent that our nation has to offer. Trade, on the other hand, ensures that these products and experiences not only reach international markets, but also provide the foundation for a robust economic uplift at the local level. When aligned strategically, tourism and trade become twin engines for growth, empowering communities, elevating industries, and enriching the lives of every Filipino,” Secretary Frasco said. 

Secretary Roque referred to the undertaking as a signal of a “whole-of-government” approach, noting that the move will strengthen tourism promotion and enterprise development. 

“This convergence aims to foster inclusive growth, empower local industries, and unlock opportunities that reach beyond far beyond our urban centers, and into the hearts of our communities. At the Department of Trade and Industry, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that our MSMEs–the lifeblood of our economy–not only participates in the tourism value chain but thrive within it,” Secretary Roque said. 

In her message, Secretary Frasco noted that while MSMEs provide around 63% of national employment and contribute approximately 40% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), these enterprises are often faced with challenges in accessing resources, markets, and opportunities for growth which the MOA seeks to address. 

“We are so grateful that the Department of Trade and Industry brings its expertise to our tourism MSMEs. Through the MOA, we are building a bridge for our MSMEs to receive the tools and resources that they need, as well as access and exposure to compete in both local and global markets. By nurturing local businesses, we elevate the Filipino brand, showcasing our cultural heritage, creative talents, and unique products to the world,” Secretary Frasco said. 

Secretary Frasco highlighted that tourism MSMEs stand to benefit from the timely agreement with DTI, which is set to be fully rolled out within the year, alongside other important policy reforms that were launched such as Republic Act (RA) 12079 or the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Refund Mechanism for Non-Resident Tourists signed approved by the President.

“The beneficiaries of all of these convergences will be no other than those that contribute greatly to the coffers of our economy, our tourism stakeholders, and frontliners. While this partnership is a significant step for both the DOT and the DTI, the true beneficiaries are Filipino people. By empowering our MSMEs, we are fostering economic stability, generating sustainable employment opportunities, and strengthening the fabric of our communities. When tourism and trade flourish, so do the livelihood of our fellow Filipinos, creating a ripple effect of prosperity and growth that will be felt across the nation,” Secretary Frasco said. 

I would like to commend Secretary Christina Roque for your visionary leadership of the Department of Trade and Industry that puts the welfare of our small and medium enterprises at the very forefront of the national development agenda. It is indeed high time that we provide opportunities for them to be highlighted, as well as opportunities for them to gain even more from the efforts of the Marcos administration to truly be inclusive as our economy grows,” she added, noting that the partnership is timely as it is essential with recent shift in global tourism landscape that show travelers’ growing preference for local, sustainable, and purpose-driven experiences. 

“Together, we are building a platform where our nation’s rich culture, heritage, and creativity can shine both in the domestic and in the international stage. To Secretary Frasco and to the entire team at DOT, thank you for the dedication to promote the Philippines as a world-class destination,” DTI Secretary Roque said. 

In an interview with the press, Secretary Roque highlighted the SB Corp’s terms, which include offering a one-year deferment on principal and interest payments, with loan amounts starting from PHP 10,000, she expressed hope that the partnership between the DTI and DOT would assist tourism MSMEs in their growth. 

Under the MOA, the DOT will focus on identifying key tourism destinations and potential markets for collaboration, spearheading tourism marketing campaigns, and partnering with the DTI on tourism product development projects designed to enhance the country’s creative industries. 

This partnership is also expected to boost tourism MSMEs by integrating local products under the DTI’s One Town, One Product (OTOP) initiative into the DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) and by providing additional spaces where OTOP offerings can be displayed and purchased. 

The DOT will play a pivotal role in promoting the Philippine tourism industry by organizing marketing and promotional activities both locally and internationally, in addition to participating in DTI’s trade missions in countries with high tourism potential.

Moreover, the DOT is committed to delivering tourism-related capacity-building programs, such as the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE), to DTI’s stakeholders. 

The agreement also outlines the DTI’s participation in DOT’s tourism events to boost investment opportunities, promote local products and services, and drive tourism initiatives in Go Lokal and OTOP stores. It supports the integration of OTOP into itineraries of the Philippine Experience Program: Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravans launched by the DOT in 12 regions so far, as well as other cultural tourism offerings. 

Additionally, the DTI is set to collaborate with the DOT on tourism product development projects that bolster the creative industries and support the overall tourism ecosystem, while championing the development and branding of local products and services. 

To ensure the effective implementation and monitoring of this agreement, the DOT and DTI will establish a Technical Working Group (TWG). 

The designation, issued through Department Order 25-02, comes following the end of the term of former Director General Rowel S. Barba effective Dec. 31, 2024.

As OIC, Arevalo is directed to manage all functions, activities and operations of IPOPHL and promulgate rules and regulations necessary for the effective implementation of objectives, policies, plans, programs and projects of IPOPHL in accordance with the law.

“IPOPHL’s thrust for quality public service will be sustained in this interim as we await the new Director General. Stakeholders can expect zero disruptions and the resumption of goals to improve the efficiency of our processes and the effective implementation of our programs and policies,” Arevalo said.

The British Chamber discussed and thanked Secretary Recto on the recent passage of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, mandating the creation of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council chaired by the President of which the Department of Finance is a member of, along with other agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Justice and the Department of Trade and Industry, among others. The discussion also centered on lowering inflation, the importance of ensuring food supply in the country, and lowered tariffs on agricultural products.

The British Chamber also discussed the recently signed Anti-Financial Account Scamming Law and the desire to pass the Cybersecurity Act and the E-Governance Act into law, which are also tagged as priority bills by the President Marcos administration. The UK as a global financial and cybersecurity hub can offer innovative solutions and best practices in terms of the Philippine government’s priority towards digitalization and strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure that leverages partnership between the UK and the Philippines and its competitiveness in the region.

The discussion further noted the importance of lowered tariffs on food imports and expressed appreciation for the growing British pork exports in the Philippines. The British Chamber has consistently worked with the UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and supported the extension of lowered tariffs on agricultural commodities including pork until 2028. AHDB has reported a 26% increase in pork exports in the first seven months of 2024 amounting to a value of over £21.8 million. The lifting of the temporary ban on UK beef is also seen as a significant move towards further promoting British meat in the Philippines and has recorded a value amounting over £2 million in the same period. This reinforces the significance of ensuring the stability of food supply, easing inflationary pressures, and reduced tariffs on rice, pork, and other agricultural commodities.

President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Toyota’s continued investment in the Philippines, particularly the recent ₱5.5 billion-investment in the production of the Philippine-made Next Generation Tamaraw, also known regionally as the Toyota Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle (IMV) 0 (Zero). This investment encompasses vehicle production, parts localization, and the establishment of a new in-house vehicle conversion capability, further solidifying TMP’s contributions to sustaining the viability of automotive and parts manufacturing industries in the country and furthermore enabling Mobility for All through the easily convertible, Tamaraw.

During the courtesy call of Toyota Motor Asia and TMP’s top officials at the Palace, the mobility leader displayed prototype conversion units of the Tamaraw, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability to the needs of Filipinos. Returning as a light commercial vehicle, TMP presented its aim to revive this iconic model into the next ‘national car’ by catering to specialized conversion needs of various Philippine Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and individuals.

At the same event, President Marcos received a letter of intent from TMP for its planned donation of five (5) Tamaraw units, which will be converted and turned over to the government in 2025. These include five (5) ambulances which will be used to support various mobility needs through the “Lab For All” health program of the First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.

Reinforcing Toyota’s global commitment to Carbon Neutrality, the company introduced its “Beyond Zero” movement to the government. This corporate initiative supports the Philippine government’s direction toward a clean energy and low carbon economy transition, aligning with key national policies related to the transportation sector such as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and Philippine Energy Plan.

Underscoring its multi-pathway approach to decarbonization, TMP also used the occasion to present the Corolla Cross H2 Concept developed by Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) in Japan. This Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle (HICEV) utilized hydrogen gas supplied by a local producer and filled through a Hydrogen Refueling Station (HRS) exclusively imported from an end-use application provider in Malaysia.

“For Toyota’s point of view, we would like to provide the most suitable vehicle technology for the country’s specific energy strategy. Matching multi-pathways with energy, Toyota has many powertrains available and currently being developed,” said Toyota Asia Region chief executive officer Masahiko Maeda.

Recognizing the country’s abundant resources, TMP also emphasized the potential of diversifying energy resources to develop related industries and complement the decarbonization goals of various sectors, including transportation. With Toyota’s widest array of xEV powertrain technologies, hydrogen has the potential to be one of the advanced alternative energy sources that presents the possibility of zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Beyond its commitment to decarbonize the entire vehicle life cycle – from raw materials sourcing, manufacturing, distribution to recycling cars and batteries – TMP stated it is also diversifying sustainable mobility with xEV usership services and exploring the benefits of data solutions and connected technology for travel or logistic efficiency resulting in CO2 reduction.