Taguig city: 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.'

According to Philippines News Agency, Roque emphasized that 'the digital age is no longer a distant horizon; it is the ground we stand on,' highlighting that digital transformation is a major program of the Marcos administration. She reiterated the government's commitment to creating a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive business environment, stressing the importance of collaboration with the private sector to achieve full digitalization.

Roque remarked that while the government can set the stage, it is the collective vision, courage, and action that will harness 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 stated.

During the same event, Converge ICT Solutions founder and chief executive officer Dennis Uy underscored the need to accelerate digital transformation in the Philippines. He cited benchmarks such as the 2025 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking, where the Philippines is ranked 51st out of 69 countries, and the 2024 Network Readiness Index, positioning the country at 63rd out of 133 countries.

Uy noted that while these rankings show improvement, 'if we want to win in the digital age, we must not just catch up, we have to leap ahead.' He mentioned that connectivity is expanding as the government, through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), works to connect every corner of the country.

Uy further highlighted the efforts of DICT and DTI in promoting 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 concluded.