The task of bridging the digital divide is not solely the responsibility of the private sector, as stated by a #Globe executive at a recent forum. Emmanuel Estrada, Globe’s Vice President for Regulatory Development and Strategy, emphasized the necessity for a collective approach involving the government and communities to achieve the country’s digitalization objectives, as outlined in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028.
Estrada highlighted that telecommunications companies in the Philippines have collectively invested Php 640 billion from 2021 to 2023 to improve the country’s connectivity infrastructure. He suggested that the government could further contribute by increasing its investments in other areas of infrastructure development.
“Bridging the digital divide requires a collective effort due to the high cost of infrastructure, the need for policy reform, and digital literacy. It’s a task that requires the collaboration of the government, society, and the private sector. Without this collective effort, we cannot bridge this gap,” Estrada explained.
He pointed out that the government currently has 54 road construction projects as part of its Flagship Infrastructure Projects, with only three related to digital connectivity and another sixteen potential PPPs. He expressed the expectation that the government would invest as much in digital connectivity and ICT as it does in roads.
Estrada also urged local government units to eliminate obstacles to obtaining permits for ICT infrastructure builds. Despite the issuance of Executive Order No. 32, which was intended to streamline the process, some LGUs continue to make securing permits difficult and slow for telecommunications companies.
Estrada emphasized that every Filipino should understand what needs to be done and the benefits they stand to gain once digitalization permeates every corner of the country. “Every stakeholder should contribute and push for it, ensuring nothing gets derailed,” he added.
On the topic of connectivity opportunities, Estrada highlighted the importance of achieving universal and meaningful connectivity. He identified three crucial aspects of digital connectivity that must be addressed to significantly bridge the digital gap: Access, Digital Literacy, and Perceived Value Gap. Essentially, people should not only have access to connectivity but also know how to use it and understand its value.
Estrada provided an industry outlook, stating, “There’s still room to grow, room to work on.” He emphasized the importance of providing connectivity first and then services on top of it, and for people to realize the value of connectivity beyond social media updates, such as for new businesses or new ways of working.
Leveraging its core business strength, Globe has been delivering digital solutions to address Filipinos’ everyday challenges. Its rapidly expanding portfolio of services spans fintech, health tech, edutech, ad tech, climate tech, investments, shared services, and entertainment.
FAQs
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What is the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028? The PDP 2023-2028 is a government-led plan outlining the country’s digitalization targets.
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What is the role of the private sector in bridging the digital divide? The private sector, including telecommunications companies like Globe, plays a crucial role in investing in and enhancing the country’s connectivity infrastructure.
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What is the role of the government in bridging the digital divide? The government’s role includes investing in digital connectivity and ICT, streamlining the process of obtaining permits for ICT infrastructure builds, and collaborating with the private sector and communities in a whole-of-nation approach.
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What are the three important aspects of digital connectivity? The three important aspects are Access, Digital Literacy, and Perceived Value Gap. People should have access to connectivity, know how to use it, and see the value in using it.
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What are the areas covered by Globe’s portfolio of services? Globe’s portfolio of services covers fintech, health tech, edutech, ad tech, climate tech, investments, shared services, and entertainment.