PHL, Netherlands exploring collaboration in water management, semiconductors

THE PHILIPPINES and the Netherlands are exploring potential collaboration in water management, semiconductors, and agriculture, the Dutch embassy said.

“As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, the Netherlands looks forward to building an even stronger partnership with the Philippines,” Netherlands Minister of Trade and Development Aukje de Vries said in a statement on Tuesday.

“We share many interests, and I saw firsthand the many economic opportunities for Dutch and Filipino business, including water, agriculture, and semiconductors,” she added.

Ms. De Vries completed a two-day visit to the Philippines, according to the embassy.

“In a high-level meeting with Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, both officials underscored the strong economic relationship between the two countries as a testament to decades of friendship and collaboration,” it said.

The meeting “explored possibilities of deepening collaboration in water management and coastal protection, semiconductors, and healthcare, as well as the priorities of the ASEAN Chairship.”

Ms. De Vries also met with Dutch companies operating in the Philippines.

During her visit, Ambassador Marielle Geraedts hosted a roundtable discussion which five agreements were signed between Dutch and Filipino government agencies, businesses, and academic institutes.

Among these agreements was the partnership between Vitens Evides International, which will be donating 25 water bladders to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“The bladders have already proved their critical value during Typhoon Tino and the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Central Philippines in late 2025,” the embassy said.

“The additional donation of 25 Dutch-sourced water bladders to the DENR further demonstrates their long-term commitment to strengthening the emergency preparedness and resilience of partners in the Philippines,” it added.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Red Tape Authority has also partnered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines to reduce red tape and promote an efficient, business-friendly government environment.

“Besides the maritime, banking, and water sectors, the semiconductor industry presents significant economic opportunities for collaboration between the Philippines and the Netherlands,” the embassy said.

“With 85% of globally manufactured chips using Dutch technology and the Philippines serving as a critical production hub for testing and packaging, the complementary nature of both nations’ semiconductor capabilities creates natural synergies,” it added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile