South Luzon builds strength in semiconductor and electronics
The semiconductor and electronics (S&E) industry remains one of the country’s strongest export drivers, and collaboration between government and private sector is proving vital to sustain this momentum. At the 2nd SEIPI Linkages Exchange (LinkX), hosted by Aboitiz Economic Estates and the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI), industry leaders underscored how synergy, innovation, and sustainability are shaping growth in South Luzon.
Held in Batangas, the NextGen Estates Forum gave companies a platform to address shifting global supply chain demands and outline strategies to strengthen Philippine competitiveness. The nation is the world’s 9th largest chip exporter, with electronics contributing USD 39.09 billion or 53.4 percent of total exports in 2024. While challenges remain, including tariff uncertainties on U.S.-bound exports, SEIPI projects steady to moderate growth in 2025.
SEIPI President Dan Lachica emphasized that LinkX strengthens connections within the industry. “The Linkages Exchange is a testament to this mission in action, as LinkX provides a dynamic platform for industry leaders to deepen partnerships, broaden market reach, and drive growth,” he said.
The government has enacted reforms to reinforce industry competitiveness, including CREATE MORE, the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council, and TESDA’s Philippine Skills Framework. Private sector efforts are also complementing these policies. Aboitiz Economic Estates’ Talent Edge program builds stronger academe-industry-government linkages, while the planned Batangas State University at LIMA Estate aims to produce graduates ready for high-value sectors.
LIMA Estate itself is a 1,000-hectare hub in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas, housing 185 locators and employing 75,000 workers. Its 70-hectare commercial district integrates residential, retail, office, hospitality, and institutional spaces, creating a complete ecosystem.
Clifford Academia, Vice President for Operations of Aboitiz Economic Estates, highlighted how LIMA combines the Aboitiz Group’s strengths in power, water, land, and construction. “It brings together the essentials so businesses can focus on innovation,” he said.
This integrated ecosystem provides reliable utilities, resilient supply chains, and a skilled workforce—key foundations that allow high-value industries like semiconductors and electronics to scale and compete globally. By building estates that go beyond infrastructure, Aboitiz Economic Estates helps anchor South Luzon as a powerhouse for the semiconductor and electronics industry, strengthening the Philippines’ position in global trade while opening opportunities for Filipino talent.
