PEZA, Nordic chamber planning Defense summit in Subic next year

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (NordCham) are organizing a forum in Subic next year to explore partnerships between Philippine and Nordic firms in advanced manufacturing, maritime, and aerospace.

In a statement on Monday, PEZA said the Nordic–Philippines Strategic Defense Alliance Summit (SDAS) is scheduled for April 5 to 7, 2027 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“Through SDAS 2027, PEZA looks forward to translating our collaboration with Nordic partners into high-value investments, technology transfer, and innovation-driven industries,” PEZA Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration Anidelle Joy M. Alguso was quoted as saying.

The forum is expected to serve as a platform to boost cooperation between the Philippines, Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden.

PEZA noted the Nordics’ expertise in sustainability, advanced manufacturing, maritime technologies, aerospace systems, telecommunications, cybersecurity, and other high-value industries.

“It presents a strategic opportunity to attract high-value and dual-use investments with applications across both civilian and strategic industries, while strengthening the country’s position within global technology and manufacturing supply chains,” it added.

On June 18, Ms. Alguso met with NordCham Executive Director Axel Fries, to explore opportunities ahead of next year’s SDAS.

PEZA said evolving geopolitical dynamics underscore the need to strengthen industrial self-reliance, reinforce supply chains, and accelerate technological advancement.

“By leveraging our ecozones, competitive incentives, modern infrastructure, and world-class Filipino talent, we aim to help position the Philippines as a trusted hub for next-generation industries and resilient supply chains serving both regional and global markets,” Ms. Alguso said. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz