PH’s quantum tech has ‘big’ potential with involvement of youth

As the Philippines ramps up efforts in quantum technology, experts urge Filipino youth to explore the field, saying they are the key to positioning the country as a future global leader.

Among the latest initiatives is the development of a scaled-down quantum computer, intended to ignite the curiosity of young Filipinos, according to Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, executive director of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD).

“We do not have a quantum computer — a full-scale quantum computer as they would like to see it… (But) we’re going to unveil a modest version of it, just to probably stir up interest, especially among our younger generation,” Mr. Paringit told reporters at the first day of Quantum Information, Science, and Technology Conference held in Mactan City , Cebu.

“We do have great potential because of our large population. We have potential if we train and educate our youth properly and stir up their interest to pursue a career in… quantum science and innovation,” he added.

As quantum technology remains in its early stages, Mr. Paringit also called for the field’s integration into the academic curriculum to help raise awareness of its developments and potentially encourage students to pursue it as a career.

Mr. Paringit also guaranteed that researchers and contributors in the field will receive support from PCIEERD, potentially enabling the emergence of niche quantum industries in the country.

Bobby O. Corpus, President of the Quantum Computing Society of the Philippines (QCSP), said that sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, banking, and finance stand to benefit the most from quantum technology—essentially spanning nearly all industries.

“It’s a paradigm shift,” Mr. Corpus said. “Anything that requires optimization will benefit.”
Among the other significant developments in quantum technology in the country is the establishment of a P59-million quantum innovation laboratory, which enables researchers to collaborate.

In March, the country’s first research laboratory dedicated to using quantum computing to ensure a reliable and efficient energy supply—named Quantum Computing-based Forecasting and Optimization Applied to Electric Power Grid (QRIEnTE)—was also launched, with a funding of P18 million.

Meanwhile, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. reaffirmed during his speech that quantum technology is among the key focus areas under the agency’s eight flagship research and development (R&D) programs.

He added that by 2030, the country aims to leverage quantum technology for innovation and economic growth, as outlined in the 2022–2028 Quantum R&D Roadmap.

“This roadmap commits us to establishing a robust national quantum network,” Mr. Solidum said, “positioning our archipelago as a central player in Southeast Asia for quantum-enabled industries and research.” — Edg Adrian A. Eva