Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday emphasized the urgent need for the Philippines to fully embrace digital transformation—not only as a catalyst for economic growth but also as a powerful tool to promote transparency and combat corruption.
Speaking at the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Duterte called on government leaders and the business community to accelerate their shift toward technology-driven systems and processes.
“We are at a pivotal point in history where technology is redefining how we do business, deliver services, and engage with citizens,” Duterte said in her keynote speech. “Artificial intelligence, data science, and digital media are no longer futuristic concepts—they are here, transforming our economy and governance.”
She highlighted that while rapid technological change can be disruptive, it also offers immense potential for efficiency, precision, and better public service. Duterte stressed that human development must remain at the heart of digital innovation.
“The digital future must be built around people. We need to upskill, train, and mentor our workforce to ensure Filipinos are not just part of the change—but leaders of it,” she said.
She urged business leaders to invest in programs that equip Filipinos with the skills necessary for a digital economy, calling them “future innovators, entrepreneurs, and drivers of national progress.”
Duterte also underscored how digitalization can serve as a weapon against corruption. “With automation and streamlined systems, we eliminate opportunities for manipulation, graft, and politically motivated misuse of funds,” she said.
She advocated for the use of technology in creating transparent and accountable governance structures, saying that data-driven systems can strengthen public trust and ensure efficient delivery of services—from disaster response to crisis management.
“If we consider technology a gift to modern society, then let us wield it to protect the rights and welfare of our people. It should ensure better governance, more equitable opportunities, and the political will to hold public officials accountable,” Duterte asserted.
She closed her address by calling for unified action from both public and private sectors to prepare the country for a digital future through innovation, inclusive growth, and people-centered investments.
“Our ability to adapt to this digital transformation will define our future,” Duterte said. “By investing in our people today, we lay the foundation for a stronger, more competitive, and resilient Philippines.”
This year’s PCCI conference was held under the theme, “Digital Transformation: Unleashing Its Power to Maximize Opportunities for the Future,” bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and tech innovators from across the country.
