PT&T venture plans multi-million dollar tech lab

SecureLink Networks Inc., a joint venture between PT&T Corp. and Australia's Netlinkz Ltd., is investing millions of dollars this year to establish a local technology lab to enhance connectivity and cybersecurity.

James Velasquez, PT&T president and CEO and co-founder of SecureLink Networks, said in an interview with reporters that the company has started looking for potential partners to accelerate the project.

“We're establishing a lab that will be a multi-million dollar investment for us. (We are going) out and engaging with local development firms to establish that lab here for us to license the technology and to fork the technology for the Philippines and beyond the Philippines,” Velasquez said.

Initially based in Makati, the lab will focus on software development and technology licensing, allowing SecureLink to tailor cybersecurity solutions for the Philippine market and beyond. It is expected to employ over 20 people in its early phase, with plans for further expansion.

SecureLink formally launched Virtual Secure Network Plus (VSN+), a cybersecurity solution developed by Netlinkz, on Tuesday night.

Using advanced encryption and software-defined networking, VSN+ creates encrypted tunnels over public internet connections, providing secure and scalable connectivity without traditional VPNs or leased lines.

Its lightweight, software-only deployment offers real-time threat protection and continuous monitoring, making it ideal for businesses and government agencies.

SecureLink aims to strengthen cybersecurity and digital transformation efforts in the country by integrating Netlinkz’s global technology with PT&T’s local expertise.