From L to R: Ferdinand Piano, Chief Operating Officer and Co-founder of NanoForge/Wagmi Solutions; DTI Secretary Fred Pascual; and Victor Aliwalas Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of NanoForge/Wagmi Solutions

WASHINGTON, D.C.– On the sidelines of the United States-Japan-Philippines Trilateral Meeting, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual engaged in discussions with representatives from Wagmi Solutions (WS), the parent company of NanoForge Technologies. Their meeting focused on NanoForge’s plans to establish a manufacturing facility in the Philippines dedicated to producing high-efficiency air filters.

The proposed facility will specialize in the production of High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, designed to remove a significant percentage of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and viruses. Nanoforge will manufacture and export these HEPA filters to its main customer Medify Air –  a major air purifier brand in the US. This initiative is notable as the manufacturing process will utilize activated carbon sourced from coconut shells, directly benefiting Filipino coconut farmers. 

Secretary Pascual expressed his support for the venture, stating, “We welcome NanoForge’s investment, which aligns perfectly with our goals to strengthen the coconut industry and create more jobs for Filipinos. Through the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), we are committed to ensuring that this venture is successful and beneficial for all parties involved.”

DTI Philippine delegation during their meeting with NanoForge Executives

The investment plan is poised to enhance the coconut industry and create numerous job opportunities in the manufacturing sector. NanoForge’s advanced air filters offer innovative solutions tailored for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

The next steps include a meeting with PEZA officials to discuss the incentives under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act. These incentives, aimed at export-oriented manufacturers, offer a range of financial benefits including an Income Tax Holiday, options for a reduced Corporate Income Tax or enhanced deductions, and tax and duty-free importation of capital equipment, raw materials, and spare parts. Additionally, they provide VAT exemptions, a substantial domestic sales allowance, and exemption from local government taxes and fees.

In 2024, WS registered NanoForge Technologies in the Philippines to produce HEPA filters for Medify Air, aiming to diversify manufacturing operations currently based in China and Mexico. ♦

Date of release: 15 April 2024

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