In the dynamic realm of global telecommunications and information technology, the Philippines stands tall with its unwavering commitment to progress, innovation, and international cooperation. Under the exceptional leadership of Secretary Ivan Uy, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has achieved significant milestones on the world stage, particularly through its engagement with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations.
As the Philippine councilor to the ITU, DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue has played a pivotal role in advancing key priorities and shaping the future of telecommunications. In this article, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the DICT and Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue in 2023.
Child Online Protection and Vice Chairmanship (Region E Asia Pacific)
One of the standout achievements of the year was the appointment of the Philippines, represented by DICT, as the Vice Chair for Region E Asia Pacific in the ITU Council Working Group on Child Online Protection (COP). Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue took on the role of Vice Chair recognizing the importance of safeguarding children in the digital age cannot be overstated, and her leadership in this area signifies a commitment to ensuring a safe online environment for the youngest members of society.
READ More: PH named vice chair for UN body’s child online protection
Sharing Best Practices under WSIS
The DICT actively participated in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, sharing best practices and garnering recognition for several programs. These efforts showcased the Philippines as a leader in digital innovation and information sharing on a global scale. The Philippines, under the leadership of Secretary Uy actively participated in the WSIS. Several programs were recognized for their contributions to the WSIS process.
READ More: PH Digital Governance Awards Hailed as WSIS Champion
Active Participation in ITU Council Meetings and Regional Meetings
Throughout the year, the DICT played an active role in all ITU Council meetings, contributing valuable insights and participating in discussions that aimed to transform ITU to be “Ready for Tomorrow and Fit for Purpose.” This forward-looking approach ensures that the ITU remains at the forefront of global telecommunications and digital development. The active participation of the Philippines in these discussions demonstrates its commitment to shaping the future of global telecommunications.
Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue also participated actively in the ITU Regional Development Forum for Asia and the Pacific (RDF-ASP), which took place from September 13th to 15th, 2023, in Bangkok, Thailand.
Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue participated as a discussant in the Ministerial Roundtable Discussion (RTD), as session moderator for Session 6 on
Regional Initiatives ASP 2: Partner2Connect Matchmaking Roundtable with the theme “Harnessing information and communication technologies to support the digital economy and inclusive digital societies,” and as speaker and panelist for Session 10 on Regional Initiatives ASP 4: Partner2Connect Matchmaking Roundtable. Her unwavering commitment and dedication to contributing to ICT development perfectly align with the DICT’s mission of harnessing cutting-edge technologies for the nation’s greater good.
Adoption of ITU Flagship Programs
The Philippines, through the DICT, adopted several ITU flagship programs, including initiatives such as Gender Inclusion and Girls in ICT. These programs, implemented in collaboration with DICT’s Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA) and Generation Connect Philippines, exemplify the nation’s commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment in the digital age. Furthermore, the Smart Village program, piloted at Sacol Island in Zamboanga under DICT IX BASULTA, stands as a testament to the Philippines’ dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering digital inclusion in remote areas.
International Partnerships
The DICT successfully engaged with the Ministerial Mission of Uganda and partnered with ITU Asia Pacific to host the first-ever ASEAN Girls in ICT event, furthering the region’s commitment to empowering girls and women in the ICT sector. Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue and her team facilitated a successful interface with the Ministerial Mission of Uganda and established a partnership with ITU Asia Pacific. These efforts also included the inaugural ASEAN Girls in ICT initiative, a significant step toward empowering young women in the region to pursue careers in the field of information and communication technology.
READ More: Uganda Draws Inspiration from the Philippines: A Model for IT-BPM Growth and Excellence
WRC Participation
The Philippines actively engaged in discussions on new technologies at the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC). This involvement is critical for staying abreast of technological advancements and ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of telecommunications innovation.
Acknowledgments and Gratitude
These achievements are a testament to the dedication, vision, and collaborative spirit of the DICT team, led by Secretary Ivan Uy and Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue. Their unwavering commitment to advancing the Philippines’ interests on the international stage has resulted in meaningful contributions to the global telecommunications landscape.
In closing, we extend our gratitude to all those who have played a part in making these accomplishments possible. Special thanks go to Secretary Ivan John Uy, Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa Camba, Directors Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin and Marivic Castro, ITU Focal Frances Loraine Valdez, the entire International Cooperation Division (ICD) and Office of Undersecretary for ICT Industry Development (OUIID) teams, industry partners, and supporters of the Philippines’ ITU engagements. Additionally, we acknowledge the invaluable support of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines, and the Geneva Mission.
As we look back at the achievements of 2023, it is clear that the ITU is indeed ready for tomorrow, thanks to the Philippines’ active and influential role on the international stage. The future of telecommunications is bright, and the Philippines is firmly positioned at its forefront, shaping the way forward for the benefit of all. #ITU #Philippines #Telecommunications #ICT #InternationalCooperation #Innovation
Jocelle Batapa Sigue 
Leave a comment