DTI lauds impending Boeing satellite for SEA coms service

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) welcomes global aerospace company, Boeing’s plan to launch a satellite that will provide communications service in Southeast Asia (SEA), including the Philippines, by mid-2025.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque met with Boeing Satellite Systems officials last 4 March in El Segundo, California, with whom she expressed the county’s desire to be a rising force in the global aerospace and satellite technology landscape.

Apart from deepening collaboration in global aerospace, the high-level meeting was also aimed at encouraging advanced manufacturing and technology investments under the CREATE MORE law, which offers generous incentives to strategic industries.

Key aviation, aerospace player

“Boeing has long been a key player in aviation and aerospace, and we see enormous potential in leveraging its expertise to develop the Philippines’ aerospace industry, satellite technology, and digital infrastructure,” Secretary Roque said. “With Boeing’s presence in our aviation sector and growing engagement in defense and satellite communications, there is much to explore in terms of knowledge transfer, manufacturing and investment.”

During the meeting, Boeing President for Satellite Systems International Ryan Reid, led an in-depth briefing and facility tour, showcasing Boeing’s cutting-edge satellite technologies and the potential to revolutionize the Philippines’ telecommunications, defense and digital connectivity.

SEA communications service

Notably, Boeing plans to launch a satellite that will provide communications service in Southeast Asia (SEA), including the Philippines by mid of 2025. Said satellite, which will be serviceable by 2026, is critical to the country’s digital transformation agenda.

The Philippines already contributes significantly to Boeing’s global supply chain, with 10 Filipino companies producing vital components for commercial aircraft programs, generating around $100 million in turnover.

Formal invitation

During the meeting, Secretary Roque extended a formal invitation to Boeing to explore investment opportunities under the CREATE MORE framework, which provides enhanced tax incentives for high-tech industries.

She also emphasized that the Philippine government is keen on fostering a sustainable aerospace ecosystem, with potential engagements ranging from satellite manufacturing to digital infrastructure development.

With its rapidly expanding digital economy and increasing global interest in aerospace investments, the Philippines is poised to emerge as a key player in space technology and advanced manufacturing.

Boeing’s long-standing partnership with the country, dating back to its early collaboration with Philippine Airlines, provides a solid foundation for deeper cooperation in these forward-looking sectors.

“We are eager to continue working with Boeing to build a more connected, resilient, and future-ready Philippines,” the trade chief added. “Our focus on innovation and strategic industry alliances will ensure our competitiveness in the evolving global digital and aerospace arena.”