Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said that the Philippine government fully supports the establishment of SpaceX in the country, according to a press release issued on May 2.
SpaceX would establish its internet service through the use of low earth orbit (LEO) satellites and its Starlink service.
The DTI intends to launch the use of SpaceX's satellites before President Duterte's term ends.
This was demonstrated during a meeting between Secretary Lopez and Rebecca Hunter, SpaceX's Senior Manager of Government Affairs.
The meeting discussed the reforms and measures implemented to attract more foreign players and investors to the country.
Another point of discussion was the Public Service Act, which enabled SpaceX to register as a wholly-owned foreign subsidiary.
The DTI and SpaceX have been collaborating closely with Ms. Hunter, with SpaceX stating that it has already begun the process of obtaining permits and registering to open the first SpaceX branch in Southeast Asia. Additionally, she acknowledged the government's assistance in its establishment.
SpaceX met with the Philippine government for the first time in April 2021 to discuss its investment plans and has since worked closely with the Board of Investments (BOI), the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in New York, and other government agencies to facilitate the issuance of necessary permits and certificates.