Expanding digital infrastructure beyond Metro Manila, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday led the launch of the AI-ready VITRO Santa Rosa (VSR) Data Center, urging stronger public-private collaboration and innovation to build an inclusive and tech-driven Bagong Pilipinas.
In his speech, President Marcos emphasized the vital role of collaboration between the government and the private sector in advancing the country’s digital transformation.
“Our job in the government is to create the conditions for growth. But real progress comes from partnership—from trust, commitment, and a shared vision,” the President said.
Labelling the Filipino workforce as “the greatest asset,” the President invited investors to explore opportunities in the Philippines’ growing digital economy.
“Let us shape the digital economy together—with the Filipino being your greatest asset,” he said.
The VITRO Santa Rosa Data Center is an AI-ready, hyperscale-capable facility that offers secure digital data storage and access. It serves as a key pillar in expanding the country’s digital infrastructure beyond Metro Manila.
The VSR site is linked to key hubs in the cities of Makati, Parañaque and Pasig through the VITRO Data Center Interconnect (DCI), ensuring seamless network reliability and scalability.
The President hailed the data center as a symbol of the country’s readiness for a digital future and a reflection of the administration’s people-centered approach to technological advancement.
“The launch of this landmark ICT infrastructure is also a testament to the people-centered future we are building—a Philippines where technology and human connection go hand in hand and exist seamlessly,” he said.
“In today’s world, data is as critical as water and electricity. We need to strengthen further our digital infrastructure, especially for critical, private, and confidential data. We need to safeguard our digital identity. We need to secure our digital future,” President Marcos said.
President Marcos cited the country’s progress in the digital sphere, pointing to the Philippines’ improved ranking in the Global Innovation Index — from 56th in 2023 to 53rd in 2024 out of 133 economies.
Despite these gains, the President said the government remains committed to driving further growth through major initiatives, including the National Fiber Backbone Project, expanded free public Wi-Fi, and streamlined processes for energy projects supporting the digital economy.
To complement infrastructure development, the government is also preparing the workforce for future jobs through the implementation of the Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act.
President Marcos expressed his gratitude to the VITRO and ePLDT Group for their confidence and contribution to the country’s digital future.
President Marcos also toured the facility, accompanied by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, PLDT Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan, VITRO Inc. President Victor Genuino and other officials.
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda was also present during the event along with Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas. | PND
