The Beijing Effect is a phenomenon resulting from China’s Digital Silk Road initiative, which aims to enhance digital connectivity in Belt and Road countries through Chinese investments in digital infrastructure. This study examines the impact of Chinese investments in the digital infrastructure of the Philippines, with a specific focus on smart city development, data governance, and environmental sustainability. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving 38 key informant interviews, to gain insights into the scale of these investments and their implications.

The findings shed light on several key points. Firstly, the Philippines is still in the early stages of adopting digital infrastructure for smart city development, primarily focusing on foundational components such a...[ Read more ]

The Beijing Effect is a phenomenon resulting from China’s Digital Silk Road initiative, which aims to enhance digital connectivity in Belt and Road countries through Chinese investments in digital infrastructure. This study examines the impact of Chinese investments in the digital infrastructure of the Philippines, with a specific focus on smart city development, data governance, and environmental sustainability. A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving 38 key informant interviews, to gain insights into the scale of these investments and their implications.

The findings shed light on several key points. Firstly, the Philippines is still in the early stages of adopting digital infrastructure for smart city development, primarily focusing on foundational components such as 5G networks, cloud computing services, and cell towers. This suggests that integrating digital infrastructure into Philippine smart cities is a work in progress. Secondly, while Chinese investments in digital infrastructure have not directly influenced the adoption of Chinese data policies and regulations, there is a strong inclination towards Chinese digital infrastructure in both the public and private sectors. Additionally, China may bypass Philippine data policies and regulations and promote cross-border data transfer. These observations underscore the need to carefully examine data governance issues and protect data privacy as the country embraces digital connectivity.

Lastly, the transfer of digital infrastructure for smart city development aligns differently with environmental sustainability goals. This highlights the potential challenges in achieving data-driven urban infrastructure while considering climate change mitigation and adaptation, particularly given the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural disasters. In conclusion, this study suggests that the Philippines is leaning towards Chinese digital infrastructure to pursue smart city development. However, it emphasizes the importance of addressing urban challenges such as investment accountability and transparency, data privacy, and environmental sustainability. As the country progresses towards a more digitally connected urban landscape, it is crucial to balance reaping the benefits of digital connectivity and addressing the potential risks and challenges associated with the Beijing Effect.

Keywords: Digital Silk Road; Beijing Effect; Philippines; smart city; data governance