Laguna: A Japanese cable manufacturer is eyeing a PHP4.3-billion expansion project in Laguna aimed at advancing the Philippines' role in the global electronics supply chain. The planned investment was discussed during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s meeting with executives of Sumitomo Electric Industries (SEI) in Tokyo, Japan on Thursday, as part of his official engagements during his four-day state visit to Japan.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos expressed that the PHP4.3 million investment in advanced electronics manufacturing means more high-quality jobs and a stronger role for the Philippines in industries shaping the future. He noted that the planned expansion is expected to generate around 300 jobs for Filipino workers while supporting export-oriented industrial growth and next-generation manufacturing development.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated that the project covers the construction of a new facility for the manufacture of flexible printed circuits (FPCs) and Surface Mount Technology (SMT) assembly products. The planned investment is expected to enhance the country's participation in the electric vehicle (EV), artificial intelligence (AI)-related electronics, and advanced telecommunications industries.

SEI owns First Sumiden Circuits Inc. (FSCI), the only manufacturer of FPCs in the Philippines. Located at the Light Industry Science Park I in Cabuyao, Laguna, FSCI specializes in manufacturing FPCs, a key component used in electronic devices such as cell phones, computers, video cameras, and printers. FSCI began FPC manufacturing in September 1996 and expanded its operations by including circuit-making processes in June 1997.

The Marcos administration aims to attract more high-value foreign investments and position the Philippines as a competitive hub for advanced manufacturing and technology-driven industries.