DFNN, Inc. Partners on Plug and Play's Horizon Philippines Project with DICT and FAB

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB), and DFNN have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to serve as the founding anchors of Plug and Play's Horizon Philippines Project, according to a PSE Disclosure dated November 29, 2023. In order to establish Bataan as a center for technology, new job possibilities, and sustainable economic development in the area, DICT, FAB, and DFNN will work together on this project to create and expand the vibrant startup and innovation ecosystem in the Philippines.

Through this partnership with Plug and Play, DFNN will work with Plug and Play on its Horizon Philippines project, which aims to harness the potential of the nation's abundant talent pool, promote economic growth through entrepreneurship and technological innovation, and create an environment that may one day produce future Filipino "unicorns" in the innovation and technology sector while also opening up opportunities for corporate investors to get involved.

"We are thrilled to partner with DICT and FAB on this groundbreaking initiative with Plug and Play. "Horizon Philippines” is more than a program. It represents a commitment to nation building, fostering collaboration between government, industries and innovators to propel inclusive digital transformation. Together, we will shape the horizon for the Philippines, by continuously finding new avenues to create an innovation-centered technology landscape," said DFNN’s President and CEO Ricardo F. Banaag.

Through Horizon Philippines, DFNN will gain invaluable firsthand and direct exposure to emerging technology startups and will be helping spearhead innovation in various industries as well as provide resources and access to relevant emerging technologies that will propel its operations in the technology realm. The program will also provide startups with opportunities for funding, support and mentoring to accelerate the development of game-changing solutions based on the proven track record of Plug and Play globally, particularly in Silicon Valley.

"Horizon Philippines is a gateway to transformative technologies that will drive our strategic initiatives and position us for sustainable growth," continued Mr. Banaag. "We are proud to be working hand-in-hand with partners across the public and private sectors to ensure not just economic growth, but also an inclusive digital future that unlocks opportunities for all Filipinos." This invaluable exposure to emerging technologies and startups will shape the company’s core strategies - from software development to AI and cloud solutions – providing exclusive access to the latest innovations that can drive efficiency, competitiveness and development of new solutions for our business lines thereby increasing shareholder value.

On November 15, Saeed Amidi, the CEO of Plug and Play Ventures, participated in a roundtable discussion led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos while attending the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting. President Marcos emphasized at this roundtable how the Philippines is embracing the AI revolution to supplement the skills already possessed by Filipinos, boosting business productivity and boosting the nation's economic competitiveness.

The National AI Strategy, developed in the Philippines, aims to use AI to enhance the talent pool of Filipinos. Positioning the nation as a leader in artificial intelligence is another goal of this strategy. According to President Marcos, "shared growth is not just envisioned but actively realized" in a future characterized by technological inclusivity, and the Philippines is prepared to join the world as a partner. 

DFN is still steadfastly dedicated to promoting innovation, revolutionizing markets, and having a good influence. The next phase of this journey is represented by Horizon Philippines, and they are excited to work with other corporate partners, government agencies that promote investment, and organizations with the goal of creating "Horizon for the Philippines."

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About Plug and Play

Present in over 50 locations worldwide, Plug and Play is a Silicon Valley-based VC firm, accelerator and corporate innovation platform founded in 2006. With 102 investments made in the first quarter of 2023, the firm has taken the top spot in Pitchfork's Q1 Global League Tables. Through its community of over 80,000 startups and 550 corporate partners, it has created a thriving startup ecosystem across many industries. Companies in its portfolio have raised over $9 billion in funding, with successful exits including Danger, Dropbox, Lending Club, and PayPal. Plug and Play opened its Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore in 2010, and have since expanded into Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. In APAC, it has invested in more than 50 startups and partnered with governments and corporations on industry-specific accelerator programs. 

About Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)

The Department of Information and Communications Technology is the primary policy, planning, coordinating, implementing, and administrative entity of the Philippine government tasked with the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. DICT is focused on developing a robust, integrated, and inclusive digital ecosystem throughout the Philippines through initiatives aimed at providing universal and equitable access to ICT services. Key programs include the National Broadband Program and Free Wi-Fi for All project to expand connectivity nationwide as well as Digital PH, which encompasses digital governance, infrastructure, health, talent, economy, and other pillars to digitally transform industries.

By spearheading national ICT policies and development, DICT plays a vital role in harnessing emerging technologies to uplift all aspects of society. The department has been an early and enthusiastic champion of forward-thinking initiatives like artificial intelligence adoption to future-proof the nation’s digital economy. 

About Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB)

The Freeport Area of Bataan is a special economic zone spanning over 3,000 hectares along Manila Bay in the Bataan province. Managed by the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), it offers businesses generous fiscal and non-fiscal incentives available to those registered within the zone. Strategically located just over 100KM from Metro Manila, FAB aims to attract technology-based manufacturing while supporting sustainable development. It presents infrastructure and workforce ready to serve as a testbed for innovators in fields from AI to IoT and clean energy.

​About DFNN, Inc.

DFNN is a leading I.T. solutions provider and systems integrator. Through their comprehensive portfolio of subsidiaries and affiliates, the DFNN Group provides an extensive array of technology solutions.