Manila: United Kingdom Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific (APAC) Martin Kent announced on Monday the launching of the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program that will help British technology and innovation firms to scale in countries across the region, including the Philippines. Kent made the announcement at the opening of the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week in Manila at the Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Kent expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Kickstart Ventures to initiate this program, highlighting their shared vision of driving innovation and expanding tech solutions across borders. Kickstart Ventures is a wholly-owned corporate venture capital of Globe Telecom. The British trade commissioner noted that this program will also support the Philippine government's efforts in digitization, accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) usage, and enhancing cybersecurity. He emphasized the UK's eagerness to contribute to the Philippines' digital transformation by sharing expertise and experience.

British Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, reiterated the UK government's commitment to strengthening technology partnerships between the two nations, especially as the Philippines' digital economy continues to grow swiftly. She pointed out that London remains a leading fintech hub, hosting firms that are revolutionizing payments, digital banking, and financial security, and emphasized the vast opportunities for collaboration with the Philippines.

The UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week in Manila has attracted 12 UK tech firms offering advanced solutions in data analytics, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, consulting, and AI for enterprise, among other fields. These firms are exploring business opportunities in the Philippines and other countries across the region.