The Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Freeport Area of Bataan and DFNN Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding as founding anchors of a project to build and accelerate the thriving startup and innovation ecosystem in the Philippines.
The project positions Bataan as a hub for technology, generate employment opportunities and sustain economic development in the region.
DFNN’s participation in the Horizon Philippines project is to harness the potential of the country’s rich talent pool, drive economic growth by driving innovation in technology and entrepreneurship and foster an environment that would allow the creation of future Filipino unicorns in the technology and innovation sector as well as provide a pathway for participation by corporate investors.
“Horizon Philippines is more than a program. It represents a commitment to nation building, fostering collaboration between government, industries and innovators to propel inclusive digital transformation. Together, we will shape the horizon for the Philippines, by continuously finding new avenues to create an innovation-centered technology landscape,” DFNN president and CEO Ricardo F. Banaag said.
The program will also provide startups with opportunities for funding, support and mentoring to accelerate the development of game-changing solutions.
The Philippines has also launched the National AI Strategy that seeks to augment the skillsets of Filipino talents with AI. The program positions the country as a center of excellence in artificial intelligence.
The Freeport Area of Bataan is a special economic zone spanning over 3,000 hectares along Manila Bay in the Bataan province. Managed by the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan, it offers businesses generous fiscal and non-fiscal incentives available to those registered within the zone.
