Czech tech firm sets sights on Philippine IT sector

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC — A Czech technology company is exploring opportunities to enter the Philippines’ thriving information technology (IT) sector.
During a recent meeting in Prague, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual met with representatives from ERA to discuss potential business ventures.
The talks centered on ERA’s plans to expand into key Philippine industries like software development, IT infrastructure, manufacturing, and maintenance services. Pascual highlighted the alignment with the country’s economic development goals.
“ERA’s plans align perfectly with the Philippines’ strategic vision,” Pascual stated. He noted opportunities for “collaboration and technological knowledge transfer” through the prospective partnership.
The DTI emphasized the strong foundation the Philippines offers ERA, with over 1,000 semiconductor and electronics companies and a workforce of approximately 3 million in those sectors.
The Czech firm has also shown a willingness to contribute to both the military and civilian sectors, promising to enhance the nation’s technological capabilities.
“This partnership has the potential to significantly bolster our nation’s technological capabilities,” Pascual remarked, noting the job creation and innovation leadership opportunities it could yield.
The DTI also pointed out ERA’s interest in the skilled workforce of the Philippine IT and business process management (IT-BPM) industry, which is recognized for its innovative capacity and ability to manage digital and complex tasks.
With a large talent pool, including 800,000 graduates annually, the Philippines is an attractive destination for companies like ERA.
“ERA’s ability to cater to both government and private sectors strengthens its position as a valuable partner for the Philippines,” the DTI noted.
Pascual assured that the potential collaboration is in line with the “Make It Happen in the Philippines” initiative.
The secretary added that the DTI and Board of Investments (BOI) are prepared to support ERA’s establishment in the Philippines.