The semiconductor sector emerged as a key focus area for future collaboration. With 85% of globally manufactured chips using Dutch technology and the Philippines serving as a critical production hub for testing and packaging, both countries are positioned to benefit from closer cooperation.

During the visit, Minister De Vries met with semiconductor industry leaders to better understand the domestic landscape and identify potential areas for collaboration, particularly in education, skills development, and workforce training.

In a meeting with Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, both sides underscored the strength of bilateral economic ties built over decades of collaboration.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in strategic sectors where Dutch expertise and Philippine capabilities naturally complement each other, including water management and coastal protection, semiconductor development, healthcare, and areas aligned with the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship priorities.

The visit provided Minister De Vries with a comprehensive look at the country’s economic landscape through engagements with both government and private sector stakeholders.

She met with leaders of Dutch companies operating in the Philippines, highlighting how Dutch strengths in agriculture, water management, maritime industries, banking, and renewable energy have translated into long-standing partnerships that support growth and create opportunities locally.

Her two-day program also included exchanges with Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda, a visit to the ING Bank hub in the Philippines, and meetings with Dutch family business Spliethoff Shipping Company, among others.

The engagements offered insights into ongoing investments and collaborations that continue to shape the economic relationship between the two countries.

Reflecting on the visit, Minister De Vries said: “As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, the Netherlands looks forward to building an even stronger partnership with the Philippines.”

“We share many interests and I saw firsthand the many economic opportunities for Dutch and Filipino business, including on water, agriculture and semicon. This visit marks an exciting new chapter in our longstanding friendship,” she added.

Overall, the visit highlighted the multifaceted strength of Dutch-Philippine economic cooperation, spanning government, business, and academic collaboration. It also formed part of a broader calendar of engagements planned by the Dutch Embassy throughout 2026 to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and the Philippines.

The agreements, finalized following a roundtable discussion hosted by Minister De Vries and Netherlands Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, highlighted expanding collaboration across key sectors including water management, governance reform, and industry development.

Among the signed initiatives was an agreement between Vitens Evides International (VEI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the donation of additional water bladders to support disaster response.

VEI, which provides capacity building and operational resilience support to local water utilities and government partners, had earlier demonstrated the value of these portable systems during Typhoon Tino and the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Central Philippines in late 2025.

The latest donation of 25 Dutch-sourced units aims to further strengthen emergency preparedness and resilience among Philippine partners.

Another highlight was the formal partnership between the Anti-Red Tape Authority and the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, naming the Chamber as an Anti-Red Tape Champion to reinforce joint efforts in reducing bureaucratic hurdles and promoting a more efficient, business-friendly government environment.

Minister De Vries’ February 9–10 visit focused on strengthening the longstanding trade relationship between the Netherlands and the Philippines, reflecting shared ambitions to expand cooperation in trade, investment, and development. The trip also signaled Dutch commitment to deepening its partnership with the Philippines as a key ally in Southeast Asia.

His trip followed last week’s deployment of SMC employee-volunteers, who distributed thousands of relief packs across the province, home to several of the company’s operations.

Ang’s visit included distributions to employees and nearby communities who assisted in clearing Mahiga Creek, located along the boundary of Cebu and Mandaue cities. Additional relief packs were handed out in Barangay Subangdaku, one of the areas closest to SMC’s plant.

He encouraged more employee-volunteers to join the December effort, which aims to reach more households still affected by Typhoon Tino.

The visit coincided with the government’s launch of “Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu”, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and attended by Cabinet officials, including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as well as private sector representatives.

Under its Better Rivers PH initiative, SMC will contribute its river rehabilitation expertise, deploying heavy equipment and personnel to support the cleanup of eight waterways across Cebu City, Mandaue, Talisay, Liloan, and Consolacion. The company will apply the same large-scale approach used in Luzon—restoring river depth, improving flow, and easing flooding in low-lying communities—at no cost to the government.

On November 21, 2025, associates from the Cebu office of Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), representing HFI, visited Barangay Cotcot in Liloan, Cebu—one of the hardest-hit communities, where 35 residents tragically lost their lives and entire neighborhoods were submerged. To support families as they work toward recovery and regain access to basic necessities, HFI distributed 20,160 bottles of 1.5-liter drinking water to 1,680 households. Barangay officials led by Barangay Captain Hon. Martin Yungco personally received and facilitated the turnover of the relief goods.

HFI President and Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) President Ms. Rie Miyake expressed the organization’s deep concern for the affected communities, stating, “We at Honda are so saddened to hear that our fellow Filipinos in Cebu have been hit with another tragic calamity. We would like to reach out and offer our sympathies to all affected and sincerely hope that they are finally able to recover soon.”

Honda Foundation, Inc. is composed of Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), Honda Parts Manufacturing Corporation (HPMC), and Honda Trading Philippines Ecozone Corporation (HTPE).

For more information about HFI, contact (02) 8581-6700 to 6799 or 0917-578-8723.

The Philippines and Taiwan reaffirmed their strong partnership in disaster relief and humanitarian cooperation during a ceremony hosted by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). The event highlighted Taiwan’s steadfast support for Filipino communities affected by Typhoon Tino, the magnitude 6.9 earthquake, and Super Typhoon Wuhan.

Taiwan Representative Wallace Chow expressed deep sympathy for the Filipino people, especially those in Cebu who faced severe losses and displacement. Drawing from Taiwan’s own experience with Super Typhoon Nando, he emphasized that both nations share similar vulnerabilities to natural disasters, strengthening the bond of solidarity between them.

Taiwan has provided a total of US$750,000 in aid to support disaster-affected families, including US$250,000 in essential relief items—such as water purification devices, blankets, tents, and solar lamps—and an additional US$500,000 in cash assistance to bolster ongoing recovery efforts.

Meanwhile, MECO Chairperson and Resident Representative Corazon A. Padiernos, speaking on behalf of the Filipino people, extended heartfelt gratitude for Taiwan’s swift and genuine support. She also commended Representative Chow, Director Joma Castillo, and TECO officials for their efficient coordination and timely delivery of humanitarian aid during critical moments.

Padiernos underscored MECO’s ongoing work to institutionalize a more responsive and inclusive framework for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), ensuring rapid mobilization of resources with strong participation from the private sector and civil society.

“The Filipino people remember not only the generosity but also the sincerity with which Taiwan’s support is offered,” Padiernos said. “These bonds remain strong in the spirit of Bayanihan, and together we continue striving for safer and more resilient communities.”

The event reaffirmed the Philippines and Taiwan’s shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in disaster preparedness, relief, and recovery—reflecting mutual care, regional solidarity, and a deepening partnership built on trust.

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.

Over the past three months, the Philippines has been hit by a series of calamities, including typhoons and earthquakes, affecting millions of Filipinos nationwide.

As a strategic partner and reliable friend, Australia is well-positioned to provide in-country assistance. Its humanitarian partners work closely with local governments and civil society organizations to ensure aid is coordinated and reaches the most vulnerable communities.

Australia’s support includes provision of shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, health care, and food assistance.

Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, said, “Australia always stands ready to support the Philippines. We commend the Philippine Government for its swift and comprehensive response to multiple disasters affecting millions of Filipinos. We are committed to working alongside them where our assistance is most needed.”

On Thursday, MDW dispatched its second batch of relief assistance to households affected by Typhoon Tino, bringing food packs, hygiene kits, and kitchenware for about 200 families, or roughly 1,000 individuals.

The mission follows earlier deliveries that included 8,000 liters of water and a water tanker team deployed on November 7, as well as an additional 5,000 liters of potable water coursed through the Bureau of Fire Protection–Dumaguete and the Local Government Unit of Dauin.

“Recovery from disasters such as Typhoon Tino is a long process. MDW continues to provide support whenever we can to the affected communities,” said Engr. Robert R. Cabiles, Chief Operating Officer.

MDW’s Kauban employee-volunteers led the repacking and distribution of goods, with assistance from the 62nd Infantry Battalion stationed in the city. The employee-driven donation campaign also gathered 85 additional relief bags containing clothing and food.

Cabiles noted that Typhoon Tino caused significant damage to the water distribution network in Canlaon and nearby municipalities. “According to earlier impact assessments from the local government, safe water is a primary need during calamities, yet the water system is also one of the most vulnerable. Restoring these facilities is essential to recovery. In the meantime, MDW is here to lend a hand to our fellow Negrenses.”

The ongoing assistance is part of MDW’s Kauban Program, which supports disaster response, water and sanitation needs, and educational initiatives.

The latest distribution is part of sustained support from both government and private sector partners as communities continue to deal with the typhoon’s heavy impact and the flooding that followed.

Employee-volunteers from San Miguel’s Cebu facilities distributed food packs — composed of San Miguel-produced goods and other essentials — across evacuation sites in Mandaue City, Cebu City, and the northern towns of Consolacion, Liloan, and Compostela.

SMC also deployed teams to provide clean, safe drinking water amid disrupted supply lines in several affected areas.

Local disaster officials report that many households remain displaced, with damaged homes and lost income delaying recovery efforts. Typhoon Tino hit just a month after a magnitude-6.9 earthquake rocked the province, worsening losses for families still trying to rebuild.

“Cebu has gone through challenges no community should experience in such quick succession. Our thoughts are with everyone there, including our own people, as they work to recover,” SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said.

Meanwhile, employees across the San Miguel Group are raising funds through the Tulong para sa Pagbangon initiative to support families affected not only by Typhoon Tino but also Typhoon Uwan in other parts of the country.

In its statement to the media, the United States reaffirmed its enduring partnership with the Philippines amid ongoing recovery efforts.

“The United States and the Philippines are not only ironclad allies — we are enduring friends and partners bound by a shared history, common values, and a steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. As millions of Filipinos continue to face the challenges brought by these disasters, including the loss of family and loved ones, our rapid response stands as a testament to the depth and resilience of our long-standing ties, especially in times of crisis.

The United States remains committed to supporting Philippine-led efforts to save lives, alleviate suffering, and help communities recover. To this end, the United States will provide $1 million in immediate life-saving assistance,” the statement read.

With another severe storm forecast to affect the country, U.S. disaster response efforts will remain closely coordinated with the Philippine government and local partners to ensure timely and effective relief nationwide.