THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reaffirmed its support for ST Telemedia Global Data Centers (STT GDC) as the regional provider expands its investment pipeline to power the country’s growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure.
STT GDC’s long-term strategy aims to scale total capacity in the Philippines toward 128 megawatts. DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque met with company leadership in Singapore to discuss these investment commitments and their role in driving foreign direct investment, high-value jobs, and tech talent development.
“This level of targeted capital investment is a powerful catalyst for our national economy,” Roque said, noting that STT GDC’s expansion—supported locally by Ayala Corporation and Globe—will stimulate supply chains and equip Filipino workers with world-class digital skills.
Economic Impact and Strategic Edge
According to STT GDC Southeast Asia CEO Lionel Yeo, data center investments deliver a strong economic multiplier. Every dollar spent generates an estimated $\$2.60$ to $\$3.00$ in ancillary domestic activity across construction, engineering, and power sectors. Additionally, each direct data center job supports roughly six indirect jobs in surrounding industries.
To support local talent, STT GDC Philippines partnered with EPI Group for its “DC Power-Up” program, sponsoring local technicians to earn the globally recognized Data Center Foundation Certificate (DCFC®).
Addresses market misconceptions, Yeo clarified that Philippine energy costs rank in the middle among the six Southeast Asian markets where STT GDC operates. The country also provides competitive pricing for green power, supported by STT GDC’s partnership with Ayala Corp and ACEN Corp for renewable energy solutions. Furthermore, the availability of large contiguous land offers a key advantage over land-constrained regional peers for massive AI projects.
Continued Capacity Build-Out
STT GDC recently brought 32 megawatts of capacity online at its flagship campus as part of its multi-facility build-out across Metro Manila and Cavite. Roque assured the company that the DTI, through the Board of Investments, will assist with regulatory and permitting support to streamline further expansion.
