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In a series of Philippine Economic Briefings (PEB) Domestic Roadshows held across the Philippines, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary, Ivan John Uy underscored the significance of technology in driving the country’s progress. These are connectivity expansion, cybersecurity fortification, and the digitisation of government services.
Secretary Ivan revealed the ambitious Bifrost Cable System Project. Slated for completion by 2024, this groundbreaking initiative will dramatically boost internet connectivity in Mindanao, potentially luring hyper-scale data centre developers to the island.
The 15,000-kilometre subsea cable system is set to directly link the west coast of North America to Singapore, passing through Guam, Davao in the Philippines, and Indonesia. This grand infrastructure project not only addresses the connectivity needs of the region but also positions Mindanao as a digital hub for global businesses.
Cybersecurity, an issue of paramount importance in an increasingly digital age, took centre stage in Cebu. Secretary Ivan shared how the DICT has made significant strides in enhancing the country’s cybersecurity posture. These efforts encompass both the technical and human aspects of cybersecurity. The upskilling of the Philippines’ cybersecurity professionals is on the agenda, ensuring that the nation has a formidable line of defence against evolving cyber threats.
Further, Secretary Ivan announced that the DICT has been actively pursuing cooperation agreements with technologically advanced nations like Estonia, Japan, Singapore, Israel, and the United States. These partnerships signify a collaborative effort to bolster cybersecurity resilience and intelligence sharing on a global scale.
While in Laoag, Secretary Ivan unveiled the eGovPH App. This digital platform promises to streamline government and business transactions, marking a significant leap towards a more efficient and user-friendly public sector. The eGovPH App consolidates various government services online, simplifying access for citizens and businesses alike.
One of the app’s standout features is eGovPay, which digitises payments for government services. This is a crucial step forward in modernising and securing financial transactions with the government. Secretary Ivan highlighted that this initiative aligns with their overarching goal to improve payment channels for all government transactions, making it easier and more convenient for Filipinos to interact with their government.
The Philippines’ economic, social, and governmental landscapes are fast changing because of digitalisation. The government is spending extensively on improving internet connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas, led by institutions such as DICT.
Digitalisation has become a driving force behind economic progress. The emergence of technology startups and the digital economy has resulted in the creation of jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities. The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector, which is driven by digital services, continues to be a significant contributor to the economy.
Simultaneously, digital payment technologies are enabling previously unbanked communities to get access to financial services. Mobile banking and e-wallets have grown popular, making it easier for customers to transact and save money.
Further, the government recognises the importance of cybersecurity and is actively working with other countries to strengthen its defences and protect the safety of digital infrastructure. To properly embrace the digital age, the Philippines is focused on workforce upskilling.
The development of digital skills is a top priority to ensure the country’s global competitiveness. It is anticipated that more government services will become digital. This entails both the addition of new services and the simplification of already existing ones.
