Global photonics company Coherent is exploring further expansion of its Philippine operations as surging demand for artificial intelligence, data centers, and semiconductors drives the need for advanced optical and connectivity technologies.
Coherent II-VI Laser Enterprise Phils. Inc. Country Manager Cesar Baracinas discussed prospective investments with Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso Panga, including plans to scale manufacturing and introduce additional technologies from the company’s global network.
Coherent has invested about P1.7 billion in the Philippines since becoming a PEZA locator in 2014, including its latest Solaris facility in Calamba, Laguna. It operates facilities in Calamba and Rosario, Cavite, employing more than 1,000 workers.
Its Philippine operations manufacture photonics, precision materials, semiconductor laser technologies, and other optoelectronic products.
The company supplies optical technologies used in high-speed networks and AI data centers, including optical transceivers and semiconductor lasers. The global buildout of AI infrastructure is increasing demand for faster, more energy-efficient data transmission, creating opportunities for the Philippines to capture more advanced manufacturing work.
PEZA said discussions covered possible new investments and expansions, technology transfers, and the registration and incentives framework for prospective projects.
“Coherent’s continued expansion in the country demonstrates how sustained investment can translate into high-skilled Filipino jobs, technology transfer, and advanced manufacturing capabilities,” Panga said.
He said such investments could deepen Philippine participation in critical global technology supply chains and support efforts to establish the country as a more competitive advanced manufacturing hub in Asia.
For Coherent, the Philippines’ existing manufacturing base could provide a platform for capturing a larger share of the fast-growing demand for technologies powering AI, data centers, and next-generation connectivity.
