“Experience has taught us that to harness the benefits of the digital revolution, we must first learn how to streamline the country’s regulatory processes and ensure a more efficient framework.“
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) pledged to push policies that would make the Philippines a “tech-ready” nation.
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, during the “Shaping a Tech-Ready Future” Digital Conference in December 2023, cited the need to address policy gaps that hinder the country’s effective preparation for a technology-driven future.
Digitalization is one of six key strategies in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 to achieve socioeconomic transformation. The plan acknowledges that technology can significantly improve efficiency and productivity, leading to sustained economic growth and better lives for Filipinos.
“Experience has taught us that to harness the benefits of the digital revolution, we must first learn how to streamline the country’s regulatory processes and ensure a more efficient framework. In this way, we will improve Filipinos’ overall well-being and fuel the country’s economic growth by expanding the opportunities available to our young and growing workforce,” said Balisacan.
He noted the importance of fostering an environment that welcomes and supports new and emerging technologies. Such policies would attract investments, create jobs, and generate economic prosperity.
Balisacan also stressed the need for data privacy and protection safeguards as new technologies proliferate.
NEDA is pushing for the passage of the Open Access in Data Transmission Bill, which aims to narrow the digital divide by promoting data transmission infrastructure development and removing competition barriers. The bill is included in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council’s Common Legislative Agenda and is expected to improve internet connectivity, accessibility and inclusivity.