UK technology leaders are stepping up their Southeast Asia push, with artificial intelligence and cybersecurity partnerships firmly in the spotlight at UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week 2026 in Manila.
Ten UK companies specialising in AI, data centres and cybersecurity met Philippine technology firms, policymakers and investors as the event returned to the capital on February 9 and 10. Hosted by the UK Government, the two-day gathering underscored growing opportunities for cross-border collaboration in digital innovation, according to a statement from the British Embassy in Manila.
Firms including Arup, iProov and Union Digital Bank showcased advances in cybersecurity, digital identity and digital twin technologies, while panel discussions explored fast-moving AI trends, emerging cyber threats and best practices for resilient digital infrastructure.
A key outcome of the event was the announcement of a Strategic Partnership between the British Embassy and the AI and Analytics Association of the Philippines. The initiative creates a formal platform for both countries to share expertise and promote the responsible, inclusive and trustworthy adoption of analytics and AI.
Rhiannon Harries, deputy trade commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia), said the participating companies reflect the strength of the UK’s US$1.2 trillion technology sector, delivering the “compute, insight and security” needed to support regional digital growth. She noted that Southeast Asia’s ambition to build a data-driven economy closely aligns with UK capabilities, particularly as the Philippines takes on the role of ASEAN Chair.
British Ambassador to the Philippines Sarah Hulton OBE said Tech Week prioritises practical collaboration, connecting regional priorities with proven UK solutions. She pointed to the expanding footprint of UK firms in digital identity and cybersecurity, as the two countries mark 80 years of diplomatic relations.
The UK also launched the ASEAN–UK TradeTech Lookbook, positioning British technology as a trusted partner in Southeast Asia’s trillion-dollar digital economy. Existing UK–Philippines collaborations in fintech, cybersecurity and space technology signal a deepening and increasingly strategic digital partnership.
