Private, public collabs seen as digital catalyst

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and hyperconnectivity will yield real, tangible benefits through a strong, solid collaboration of the country’s technology sector with the government, Converge CEO and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy said.

Uy hosted a Partners’ Night on 7 April, with the support of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), for the 51st Philippine Business-Conference and Expo which he is chairing this year.

“In the past years, I’ve been exploring technologies around the world that can be adapted and brought to the Philippines. As I traveled, I learned one hard truth: the Philippines is truly behind. While other countries are racing ahead with AI and automation, we are struggling to keep pace. Technology is not slowing down — and we need to catch up, fast,” Uy emphasized.

Lending support to the event was newly appointed Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and Department of Science and Technology Undersecretary Maridon Sahagun to represent Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.

“We recognize that we in government cannot do this alone. This year will mark a stronger public-private partnership as we push forward our priority pillars under DICT — Digital Economy, Infrastructure, Championing Data Privacy and Security, and Transparency in Government. When the public and private sectors unite with a common purpose, we can build a world where technology doesn’t divide us, but instead unites us. Sa “Bagong Pilipinas,” walang iwanan — especially when it comes to digital bayanihan,” Aguda shared.

Robust infra a must

The DICT Secretary also echoed Uy’s emphasis on the importance of robust infrastructure and meaningful connectivity.

“There can never be digital transformation without strong infrastructure. And you can’t adopt AI and other digital solutions without reliable connectivity. Our bold aspiration is that, as we work together — whether it’s through fiber, mobile, low Earth orbit satellites, or high-altitude platforms — no nook or cranny in the country will be left unconnected,” Aguda said.