Intel to expand Manila fab

An Intel UK public relations representative today said he was unable to confirm an Asian wire report that Chipzilla is making a further investment in the Philippines. Asia Pulse reported a Philippines government minister, Edgardo Espiritu, as saying that both Intel and Acer will expand their operations in the country. Intel has a fab in the Philippines but if the government minister is right, it probably means that there will be a refurb of its facilities to .18 micron technology. The chip giant is engaged in a worldwide effort to put more .18 micron technology in stream, with three or four fabs operational by the beginning of next year. But Intel is never specific about which fabs are going through a re-furb, and which fabs are not -- that being a sensitive issue. ®