April 5, 2017 — Companies from the private sector came together at a Joint Membership Luncheon with Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Rodolfo Salalima to talk about the country’s improved access to technology, data privacy, and cybersecurity at the New World Makati Ballroom last April 4, 2017.

Secretary Salalima discussed the need for improvement of infostructure along with the department’s plans in addressing concerns regarding information and communications technology in both the private sector and public sector. These include the setting up of a cloud facility either on their own or in partnership with the private sector, which is for use by any government agency; building an independent and complimentary broadband network to the two major networks in the market; and welcoming a third player in the market, as long as they are financially, technically, and legally fit to provide these services.

The Philippine Government’s ICT initiatives and National Broadband Plan (NBP) were also highlighted by Sec. Salalima, explaining NBP’s function — to facilitate access to public services, including telco services — and ASEAN ICT Masterplan’s objectives — to institutionalize ICT as an engine of growth, recognize the ASEAN as an ICT hub, realize the dream of improving quality of life, and contribute to the ASEAN integration with the other member states.

Sec. Salalima also clarified that contrary to the belief, automation will not decrease employment, but has the power to improve human welfare and multiply results of work, which will yield growth and prosperity through the creation of jobs. DICT sees working closely with the private sector and using technology as a means to increase productivity without increasing unemployment.