The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) aggressive investment promotion campaign achieved another milestone as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque witnessed the signing of three historic memoranda of understanding (MOUs) between premier Philippine and Japanese conglomerates.
Signed on May 27, these strategic partnerships are designed to rapidly accelerate the development of smart cities, digital connectivity, and financial technology (fintech) across the Philippines.
DTI Secretary Roque emphasized that these multi-billion peso collaborations reflect unwavering international investor confidence in the Philippines and underscore the nation’s readiness to lead in digital innovation and next-generation smart infrastructure.
“We welcome these investments to the Philippines because they will bring meaningful benefits to Filipinos—from smarter and more connected communities to safer and more accessible digital financial services,” Secretary Roque said. “These partnerships will make everyday transactions faster and more convenient while creating more opportunities for Filipino consumers, businesses, and workers.”
The three landmark agreements signed include:
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The “Intelligent City” Initiative: Signed by Ayala Corp., Globe Telecom, Mitsubishi Corp., and KDDI Corp., this partnership will conduct comprehensive studies on cutting-edge smart city solutions starting in Makati City, with a blueprint for future expansion to other urban centers nationwide. The initiative will deploy artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), urban data integration platforms, and advanced telecommunications to revolutionize public transportation, retail services, energy management, and digital municipal services.
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The “Smart Life” Digital Services Platform: Anticipated to generate approximately PhP7 billion in revenues, this agreement between Ayala Corp., Mynt, and Mitsubishi Corp. will build an integrated digital ecosystem to enhance daily transactions for Filipinos. The collaboration will roll out next-generation rewards programs, streamlined ticketing services, online payment systems, and data-driven digital marketing solutions.
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Global GCash Expansion & Fintech Integration: Solidifying a powerful financial alliance, Ayala Corp., Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), Mitsubishi Corp., and Mynt entered an agreement to aggressively scale GCash services both domestically and globally. Building upon a massive $700 million combined investment previously made by Mitsubishi and MUFG into GCash, this agreement will focus on deploying advanced digital payment systems, micro-lending services, investment products, and robust cybersecurity. Furthermore, GCash will be deeply integrated into the extensive business networks of Ayala and Mitsubishi, spanning retail, real estate, energy, mobility, and digital services.
Moving forward, the DTI, through its extensive network of international trade and investment offices, remains steadfast in its mission to attract high-value global investments. The Department continues to prioritize partnerships that actively generate jobs, broaden digital accessibility, and foster a more innovative, resilient, and inclusive Philippine economy.
