PH, UAE ink MOU to boost PH digital infrastructure
The Philippines is collaborating with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the development of digital infrastructures in the country, such as several data center projects with total capacity of 500 megawatts.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with UAE counterparts to bolster its partnership in the digital infrastructure area.
DTI Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, who signed the MOU last Nov. 30 in Abu Dhabi, with UAE Investment Minister Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, said that the agreement “serves as a framework for a stronger alliance of both countries in strengthening bilateral ties particularly in the digital infrastructure sector.”
“Through the development of these centers, the Philippines is poised to thrive further in the global digital economy as these will be critical for storing essential data and running applications aligned with the country’s vision of a robust growth in the digital ecosystem,” he added.
Under the MOU, the two parties are set to develop data center projects, reaching a total capacity of up to 500 megawatts.
Pascual said that the MOU also aims to build relationships among public and private sector organizations in the Philippines and the UAE, and will facilitate knowledge sharing and provide incentives for relevant initiatives.
The DTI chief underscored that the agreement is founded on the growing economic ties with the UAE. He cited that the bilateral trade value between the two countries reached $506.1 million in the first half of 2023, showcasing a robust 19.4 per cent growth compared to the previous year.
For his part, Alsuwaidi recognized the Philippines' rapid digital adoption, resilient infrastructure, and strategic market proximity which is set to accelerate the ongoing digital expansion of UAE.
"This transformative alliance exemplifies the country’s unwavering commitment to embracing innovation and fostering sustainable economic growth to facilitate the integration of the Philippines' digital infrastructure into the global digital economy," Pascual added.