Mindanao’s digital cooperation efforts with Qatar have advanced as MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno met with Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology to explore opportunities in innovation, tech talent development, and emerging digital solutions. The meeting, part of a three-day Mindanao Investment Mission to Qatar, focused on collaborations supporting national digital goals and addressing Mindanao’s unique development needs, including strengthening innovation ecosystems, boosting tech talent, and integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Discussions centered on ICT investment prospects, digital capacity-building initiatives, and innovation pathways for inclusive, innovation-led economic growth. Both sides underscored opportunities for strategic cooperation in ICT investments, joint research, and technology-transfer programs, with Qatar open to working with Philippine stakeholders on targeted digital initiatives. The meeting highlighted the shared interest in strengthening collaboration in innovation and entrepreneurship, including cross-border startup cooperation to enable Filipino and Qatari innovators to co-develop solutions. Human resource development in digital and emerging technologies is a priority, with Qatar interested in exploring initiatives to support Filipino learners and professionals, offering opportunities for Mindanao to strengthen digital skills and integrate innovation into local development initiatives. This cooperation offers pathways for Mindanao to accelerate digital inclusion, enhance broadband connectivity, and equip MSMEs with technology-enabled tools, aligning with MinDA’s mandate to promote balanced development and strengthen the region’s competitiveness through innovation-driven growth. Secretary Magno affirmed that the PH-Qatar digital collaboration supports both nations’ long-term strategic directions, with synergies essential to building a better Mindanao that is digitally empowered, economically competitive, and better positioned to harness emerging technologies for inclusive and sustainable development.
