Businesses in the country are encouraged to further improve their digitalization move and take advantage of innovations to bolster their operations and presence, not just domestically but also overseas.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque, in her speech during the launch of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo in Taguig City on Monday, said the event “is not just a call to action; it is a clear reflection of our present reality.”

“The digital age is no longer a distant horizon; it is the ground we stand on,” she said, noting that digital transformation is a major program of the Marcos administration.

“We are steadfast in our commitment to creating a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive business environment for everyone,” she added, underscoring the need for greater tie-up with the private sector to achieve full digitalization.

Roque said the government can set the stage, but it is collective vision, courage and action that will unleash the power of digital transformation.

“Together, let us build a future where every Filipino entrepreneur, no matter their size or location, can harness technology to achieve their dreams,” she said.

During the same event, Converge ICT Solutions founder and chief executive officer Dennis Uy said digital transformation in the country need to be accelerated, citing several benchmarks that include the 2025 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking that places the Philippines at 51st out of 69 countries and the 2024 Network Readiness Index that positions the country on 63rd spot out of 133 countries.

While these are improvements compared to the previous years, Uy noted that “if we want to win in the digital age, we must not just catch up, we have to leap ahead.”

“The good news is the foundation for real change is already here. Connectivity is expanding. The government, through the DICT (Department of Information and Communications Technology), is working to connect every corner of the country,” he said.

Uy said DICT and DTI are encouraging more cashless payments, electronic commerce, artificial intelligence and smart city initiatives.

“Across LGUs (local government units), we’re seeing digital tools take root — making cities safer, more efficient and more profitable. Contrary to perception, Filipinos are hungry for digital transformation. They’re eager to digitize operations,” Uy said. (PNA)