PH and Korea forge partnership to drive digital transformation

The Philippines has partnered with the Republic of Korea to accelerate its digital transformation efforts, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) announced Friday. The collaboration was formalized during the inaugural meeting of the Korean-Philippine Economic Innovation Partnership Program (EIPP) on January 16 at New World Hotel in Makati City.

NEDA, in cooperation with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), unveiled plans for three digital infrastructure projects aimed at advancing the Philippines' information and communications technology (ICT) capabilities. These initiatives include the development of a National Communications Satellite Roadmap, the creation of an Implementation Plan for the Philippine E-Government Master Plan, and the establishment of an Integrated Data Center Implementation Plan.

The National Communications Satellite Roadmap seeks to establish a robust satellite telecommunications ecosystem, while the E-Government Master Plan focuses on enhancing government services through technology and fostering expertise exchange between the two nations. The Integrated Data Center project aims to adopt Korea’s advanced data management strategies to bolster the Philippines’ digital infrastructure.

NEDA Undersecretary for Investment Programming Joseph Capuno highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are at the threshold of an exciting chapter in the partnership between the Philippines and Korea — one that promises to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and create a lasting impact for both nations. These projects will pave the way for significant advancements in our digital infrastructure.”

Launched in 2020 by Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance (MOEF), the EIPP is a multi-year government-to-government program that supports sustainable development and fosters economic growth in partner countries. The initiative is expected to enhance the Philippines' efforts to achieve upper-middle-income status by the end of the year.

The event was attended by key officials, including Deputy Director Byeongkwan Seo of Korea’s MOEF, Director General Chul-ho Park of KOTRA Development Cooperation Office, and DICT Undersecretary David Almirol Jr., among others, signaling the strong commitment of both nations to their shared goals of digital innovation and economic progress.