MANILA — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said the Philippines is well-positioned to become a regional data center hub due to its strategic geographic location and ongoing digital reforms.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda described data as the “next oil,” emphasizing the country’s potential to capitalize on global demand for digital infrastructure. Speaking at the 3rd Telco Forum organized by the Anti-Red Tape Authority, Aguda noted that major fiber optic routes pass through the Philippines, linking Asia with the United States without traversing conflict-prone regions such as the Middle East.

He added that the country’s location between the Pacific and ASEAN regions makes it a strategic transit point for global data traffic, creating opportunities for investment and transit revenues. Aguda also mentioned ongoing efforts to develop policies such as a data sovereignty act and a data embassy framework to encourage foreign companies to store their data locally.

The DICT chief said global technology firms, including Meta Platforms, are already routing infrastructure through the country, with more major operators expected to follow. The Philippines currently has around 200 megawatts of data center capacity, with additional facilities planned to meet growing demand, particularly driven by artificial intelligence applications.
NPO News Team l ABS CBN - PR

Ernest Perez, secretary of the Anti-Red Tape Authority, said the government aims to streamline permitting processes, especially at the local government level, to accelerate data center development and strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.