PBBM’s push for ASEAN digital connectivity, MSME empowerment lauded

By Jose Cielito Reganit, Philippine News Agency

At the plenary session of the 44th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Laos, President Marcos underscored digitalization’s transformative potential, highlighting it as a “significant catalyst for connectivity in ASEAN” and a critical tool for advancing innovation, growth, and opportunities. (PCO Photo)

MANILA – House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Thursday lauded President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. for his emphatic call to strengthen digital connectivity and digitalization as key drivers of economic growth in Southeast Asia.

At the plenary session of the 44th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Laos, President Marcos underscored digitalization’s transformative potential, highlighting it as a “significant catalyst for connectivity in ASEAN” and a critical tool for advancing innovation, growth, and opportunities.

In a statement, Romualdez said the President’s participation in the ASEAN Summit, and his advocacy for digital transformation, directly benefits ordinary Filipinos by paving the way for more jobs and business opportunities.

“This is not just about diplomacy and high-level discussions. The President’s push for stronger digital connectivity in ASEAN translates to real, tangible benefits for the Filipino people,” he said.

He said boosting digital connectivity in the region would open more doors for Philippine businesses and entrepreneurs, with the potential to create a myriad of jobs for Filipinos.

“By fostering innovation and increasing access to digital markets, we are unlocking opportunities for local businesses, especially MSMEs, and creating new jobs for our workforce.

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Romualdez said digitalization not only strengthens economic ties among ASEAN member states but also fosters inclusivity by bridging the digital divide, particularly in underserved communities.

The Philippines, he noted, has taken significant steps to accelerate digitalization through key initiatives such as the E-Government Act, the Public Service Act amendments, and various infrastructure programs aimed at expanding broadband access to remote areas.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the country’s digital economy in 2023 amounted to about USD35.4 billion, contributing 8.4 percent to the country’s gross domestic product.

This resulted in a 7.7 percent growth from the USD33.6 billion gross value added of the digital economy in 2022.

In his intervention at the plenary session of the 44th ASEAN Summit, the President emphasized the need to create a “safe and trusted digital environment” to propel the region into becoming the fourth-largest economy in the world.

This, Marcos noted, will be greatly aided by the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which aims to elevate the ASEAN digital economy to USD2 trillion by 2030.

The President also underscored the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity, equipping people with digital skills, and establishing vital digital infrastructure to secure ASEAN’s economic trajectory.