Negros Island: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is targeting an ambitious increase of 8 million in the number of Filipinos employed in the digital economy by 2028, according to a statement by an official on Wednesday. This initiative aims to boost the overall employment in the digital industry to a total of 19.3 million individuals across the country, either directly or indirectly engaged in the sector.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lawyer Leandro Angelo Aguirre shared this vision during the Bayanihan Roadshow held in the capital city. He highlighted that the digital economy's contribution to the national economy in 2024 was PHP2.23 trillion, which accounted for 8.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product. Aguirre emphasized the importance of digital transformation in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance and empower Filipinos, noting that providing meaningful employment opportunities is crucial for empowerment and dignity.

Aguirre further noted the growth in digital economy employment from 6.2 million Filipinos in 2018 to 11.3 million in 2024. The DICT is actively working to make Filipinos aware of the significant impact of digital transformation and the digital economy on their lives.

The roadshow featured various stakeholders, including private sector representatives, government agencies, and non-government organizations, who signed a pledge of commitment to support the DICT's programs. These initiatives, such as the E-Commerce Para sa Lahat for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the Private Express and/or Messenger Delivery System (PEMEDES), aim to empower Filipinos, especially in last-mile villages, through the use of digital technology.

In a related development, the DICT inaugurated its Negros Island Region office in the capital city on Tuesday, with key officials and partners present to mark the occasion.