Hitachi Asia Ltd. is eyeing to help the Philippines overcome social challenges by leveraging their Social Innovation solutions and expertise.
This was stressed by Mitsuhiko Shimizu, GM of the Philippine branch of Hitachi Asia Ltd., who said that “in the Philippines, we can contribute to the trends of digital transformation through our Social Innovation business, and in time, help overcome challenges associated with social problems such as heavy traffic, pollution, disasters, and others. We aim to contribute to the Philippines’ growth trajectory in an inclusive and sustainable manner.”
The company’s current business model – Social Innovation –combines information and communications technology (ICT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and data analytics.
Hitachi has been working with the Philippines for over 80 years now, starting off as a supplier of hydro turbines to Davao and as a provider of power generating equipment to Meralco in 1960. Later, it branched out to produce televisions and electric fans, among others.
With the company’s new direction – the fusion of ICT, operational technology (OT) and Social Innovation systems and solutions – Hitachi is now focusing on its corporate role to support urban development and other growth areas in the Philippines.
“We are confident that we can leverage our expertise and be an innovative partner for both public and private sectors working in areas such as railway systems, energy management, security solutions, Internet of Things (IoT), among others,” said Shimizu.
Through its advanced Social Innovation business, Hitachi targets a raise of over 55% in overseas sales ratio in its 2018 Mid-term Management Plan, an action plan to become the Innovation Partner in the IoT era. To achieve this, the Philippines can help Hitachi by focusing on energy management, railway and urban development solutions, in addition to its high functional materials and ICT businesses.