Philippines Unveils Ambitious AI Masterplan Targeting $34.4B Investment

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said its AI+ Infrastructure Masterplan (PAIIM) set an investment target of $34.4 billion until 2033, boosted by plans by at least two US hyperscalers to start setting up 400-megawatt (MW) data centers as early as next year. “By leveraging the country’s strategic location, strong talent base, and established IT-BPM sector, the Masterplan aims to elevate the Philippines into Southeast Asia’s premier AI hub. This Masterplan provides a blueprint for turning the Philippines’ AI ambitions into reality,” it said. The plan is expected to bring in $21 billion worth of private investments through public-private partnerships, and blended finance; and $13.5 billion in public investment to support digital infrastructure development. Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda said: “Usually, when hyperscalers come in here, it takes them anywhere between six to nine months to get necessary power and land. With this masterplan, everything will be in place for them. It maps out the corridors (where they can build),” Mr. Aguda told reporters. He said if negotiations with the two hyperscalers move forward, development is expected to start by next year. “Initially they expressed interest in building 200 MW each over a period of five years,” he said. The DICT has said that the Philippines must accelerate its AI adoption by upgrading infrastructure and boosting regulation, as slow uptake could hinder the country from fully capturing productivity gains. The masterplan outlines the DICT’s strategy for AI development, as well as digital connectivity expansion and enabling high-performance computing capabilities. — Ashley Erika O. Jose