Information technology company IBM is set to expand its business in the Philippines and establish several research and development (R & D) centers in several locations in the country. This will be done through a partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

DOST Secretary Mario Montejo said in an interview with the Manila Bulletin that the move is a clear signal that technology companies such as IBM really look at the Philippines as a place to go for R & D activities.

Montejo added that IBM is keen on further tapping the technological expertise of Filipinos, noting that the IT company considers the country as a very conducive place for investing in R & D.

The R & D centers will be established not just in Metro Manila but also in other areas across the country including Cebu, Tacloban and Davao – a move that is also in support of inclusive growth.

The DOST Secretary added that the country can also benefit from the best practices in Science and Technology that IBM – which he described as a company that provides business solutions using technology, particularly IT – can share through these research and development centers.

IBM previously worked in partnership with DOST in 2007 with programs like the National Technology Business Incubators Program, Engineering Research & Development for Technology Program and the Philippine Intellectual Property Policy Strategy.