Jocelle Batapa Sigue

February 2, 2024 – The 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by Singapore on February 1-2, 2024, marked a significant stride towards establishing an inclusive and trusted digital ecosystem within the ASEAN region. Chaired by Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information, Josephine Teo, and with Thailand’s Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Jantararuangtong, serving as Vice-Chair, the meeting underscored the progress achieved under the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 (ADM 2025) despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key outcomes of the meeting included the endorsement of the ASEAN Guide on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance and Ethics, setting a regional standard for responsible AI deployment. This initiative is complemented by the establishment of a new Working Group focused on AI Governance, emphasizing the ASEAN commitment to ethical AI practices.

The meeting also highlighted the advancement of cross-border data flow facilitation, acknowledging the ASEAN Model Contractual Clauses and their implementation guide, aimed at seamless data transfers within and outside the region, enhancing business and investment opportunities.

A notable achievement was the successful completion of the Regulatory Pilot Space project to facilitate cross-border digital data flows, supporting autonomous vehicle technologies within ASEAN, indicating a forward-thinking approach to regional digital innovation.

Further, the establishment of the ASEAN Regional CERT (Computer Emergency Response Teams) Financial Model was welcomed, strengthening regional cyber resilience and incident response capabilities, vital for maintaining a secure digital environment.

The meeting celebrated the completion of the ASEAN Framework on Logistics for the Digital Economy Supply Chain in rural areas, improving digital infrastructure and connectivity to support rural digital economies.

Projects endorsed during the meeting, such as the Standard to Exchange Data related to Disasters and the Anti-Online Scam Working Group, reflect ASEAN’s commitment to enhancing digital safety, security, and disaster resilience.

The meeting’s emphasis on international mobile roaming affordability, 5G development, and the launch of ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) negotiations showcases a concerted effort to enhance regional digital connectivity and integration.

Collaborative engagements with global partners, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, the United States, the European Union, ITU, and APT, were recognized for their contribution to ASEAN’s digital development, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in realizing a secure, inclusive, and digitally advanced ASEAN.

Philippines Hands Over ASEAN Digital Leadership to Singapore with Key Achievements

February 1, 2024, marked a significant day as Secretary Ivan John Uy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) addressed the closing of the Philippines’ chairmanship of the ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting. The ceremony, held in the presence of ASEAN member states and the incoming chair, Minister Josephine Teo of Singapore, was a testament to the collective strides made under the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025.

Reflecting on the year’s accomplishments, Secretary Uy expressed deep gratitude for the collaborative spirit that propelled the region closer to a sustainable digital future. The Philippines’ tenure was characterized by a steadfast commitment to enhancing Cyber Security, nurturing an Innovation-Driven Economy, promoting Citizen-Centric Governance, and ensuring Digital Inclusion.

The efforts to secure the digital realm were particularly highlighted, alongside initiatives to bolster economic growth through innovation and technology. The commitment to citizen-centric governance was evident in the improved delivery of digital public services, making significant inroads in making governance more responsive and accessible to the ASEAN populace.

Digital Inclusion, a critical pillar of the chairmanship, ensured that the digital revolution’s benefits reached every corner of the region, emphasizing the importance of leaving no one behind. The Philippines also took significant steps in advancing women’s roles in the digital age through the Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA) project, showcasing the country’s dedication to gender equality in the digital domain.

As Singapore assumes the chairmanship with the theme “Building Inclusive and Trusted Digital Communities,” there’s a strong sense of optimism for the continued journey towards an integrated and resilient digital ASEAN. Secretary Uy’s commendation of Singapore’s capability to lead the next phase signifies a seamless transition and a shared vision for the future.

The ceremony was not just a handover but a reaffirmation of ASEAN’s unified approach to tackling the challenges and seizing the opportunities presented by the digital age. With the support of the ASEAN Secretariat and the collective efforts of all member states, the region stands on the brink of a new era of digital collaboration and innovation, poised to build a digitally inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.

ASEAN Digital Senior Officers Meeting: Philippines Concludes Chairmanship with Notable Achievements

January 30, 2024 – In a significant gathering of ASEAN’s digital policymakers, Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, representing the Philippines, delivered a poignant address marking the end of the Philippines’ successful chairmanship of the ASEAN Digital Senior Officers Meeting (ADGSOM). The event, celebrated for its collaborative achievements towards the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025, was held amidst the spirit of unity and shared vision for a digitally empowered ASEAN.

Under the theme “Synergy Towards a Sustainable Digital Future,” the Philippines spearheaded initiatives across four pivotal areas: Cyber Safety, Innovation-Driven Economy, Citizen-Centric Governance, and Digital Inclusion, driving the region closer to its goal of a comprehensive and inclusive digital ecosystem.

Significant advancements in cyber safety were highlighted, emphasizing the collaborative efforts made in strengthening cybersecurity measures essential for a trustworthy digital environment. The chairmanship also saw ASEAN’s push towards an Innovation-Driven Economy, positioning the region as a formidable entity in the global digital arena by fostering innovation and technological adoption.

A key focus on Citizen-Centric Governance was applauded for transforming governmental digital services, making them more accessible and efficient, thereby enhancing public service delivery to meet the needs of ASEAN citizens. Moreover, the Philippines’ commitment to Digital Inclusion, particularly through the Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA) project, underscored the importance of ensuring equitable access to digital opportunities for all, especially women and girls.

As Singapore takes the baton for the 2024 chairmanship with the theme “Building Inclusive and Trusted Digital Communities,” Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue expressed confidence in their leadership to further the region’s digital aspirations. The incoming chair’s vision aligns with the ongoing efforts to create a digitally inclusive environment that fosters trust and community within ASEAN.

The closing address also extended gratitude to the ASEAN Secretariat for its unwavering support and to all member states for their cooperative spirit, which has been instrumental in the year’s accomplishments. As the Philippines passes the chairmanship to Singapore, the commitment to a digitally inclusive and sustainable ASEAN future remains a collective priority, with an emphasis on continuous innovation and collaboration.

Strengthening Digital Ties: Philippines and India Forge Ahead in Technology and Security

On January 31, 2024, at the ASEAN Digital Senior Official Meeting with Dialogue Partners, Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue delivered an intervention highlighting the partnership between the Philippines and India in the digital and technological realm. She emphasized the shared commitment of both nations to advance in the digital global services and financial technology sectors, marking a significant step forward in their collaborative efforts.

The Philippines and India, recognized leaders in the Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector, have been working closely to enhance their industry capabilities. This collaboration extends to various critical areas such as knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the establishment of joint ventures that foster innovation and technological advancements. These concerted efforts have not only strengthened their positions as top global outsourcing destinations but have also paved the way for significant contributions to the digital economy and ICT sectors within the ASEAN framework.

She also applauded India’s active engagement in capacity-building initiatives undertaken in 2023, which have greatly contributed to the digital economy’s growth. The Philippines expressed its support for the 2024 ASEAN-India Digital Work Plan, signaling a keen interest in deepening cooperation in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, digital health, and cybersecurity.

A particular interest was expressed in expanding discussions on IoT, recognizing its potential to scale more regional programs and highlight valuable use cases. This reflects a forward-looking approach to embracing innovative technologies that can significantly impact various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and smart cities.

Secretary Ivan John Uy and the DICT delegation along with the delegates from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) met with dialogue partners such as Japan, the United States and China to discuss areas of cooperation.

Philippines Highlights Critical Need for Data Governance Framework for ASEAN

In a landmark forum held on February 3, 2024, at the Shangri-La Singapore, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) of the Philippines joined forces with counterparts from ASEAN countries and Japan to chart the future of data governance in Asia. The Ministerial Session on the Future of Data Governance and the Operationalisation of “Data Free Flow with Trust” (DFFT) was jointly proposed by the governments of Japan and Singapore, highlighting the critical importance of secure, reliable data access across borders for the burgeoning digital economy and societal security.

The session underscored the necessity for a harmonized approach to data management, amidst a backdrop of varied policy responses by individual governments that have led to a patchwork of data governance models. With many countries in the Asia-Pacific region already aligning with frameworks like the APEC Privacy Framework and the ASEAN Framework on Personal Data Protection, the forum served as a crucial step towards fostering trust, interoperability, and transparency in digital ecosystems across the region.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy shared insights into the country’s strategies and challenges in navigating the digital revolution, emphasizing the pivotal role of DFFT in enhancing digital infrastructure, e-governance, and the digital economy within the Philippines. The initiative’s focus on privacy, data protection, and digital security aligns with the nation’s efforts to ensure a resilient digital ecosystem where data flows freely yet securely, fostering trust and cooperation not only within the Philippines but also in the broader ASEAN community and with partners like Japan.

The forum facilitated a rich exchange of practices and viewpoints on cross-border data flow and DFFT operationalization, aiming to identify areas for future cooperation based on ASEAN and participants’ priorities. Discussions revolved around promoting common data governance principles, enhancing interoperability through data transfer tools, understanding regulatory landscapes, and capacity building for effective cross-border data management.

This collaborative endeavor also included talks on potential collaboration through institutional arrangements to lead international data governance, leveraging advanced practices and possibly integrating with existing DFFT initiatives. The Secretary made special mention of the DICT’s D4D (Data for Development) program, aimed at harnessing real-time data for digital enterprise investors in the country’s digital cities, exemplifies its proactive stance in leveraging data for national development and international cooperation.

As the forum concluded, it was evident that the path to a digitally integrated future lies in shared principles, mutual learning, and collaborative efforts. The Philippines, with its unique insights and experiences, stands ready to contribute to and benefit from this collective journey towards a future where data not only flows freely but does so within a framework of trust, respecting the sovereignty, privacy, and security of all involved nations.

Philippines Showcases Digital Initiatives Aligned with ITU Workplan at ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting

February 2, 2024 – In a recent address at the ASEAN conference, Secretary Ivan John Uy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) of the Philippines highlighted the nation’s strategic digital initiatives that align with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) workplan. The speech underscored the Philippines’ commitment to fostering digital inclusivity, connectivity, and innovation across the ASEAN region.

Secretary Uy expressed gratitude to the ITU for its support of the Philippines’ Smart Village initiative in Sacol Island, Mindanao. This pioneering project exemplifies the country’s efforts to transform rural areas into digitally empowered communities by integrating ICT solutions in healthcare, education, and local governance. Inspired by the success in Sacol Island, the DICT plans to replicate this model in other underserved islands in the Philippines, further expanding the impact of rural digital transformation.

In addition to the Smart Village initiative, Secretary Uy highlighted the Philippines’ dedication to digital inclusion through programs like the Digital Innovation for Women Advancement and Generation Connect Philippines. These initiatives are designed to encourage the active participation of women, girls, and youth in the ICT sector, in line with ITU’s objectives. The Philippines’ commitment was further demonstrated by hosting the first ASEAN Girls in ICT event, with plans to celebrate the Global Girls in ICT in partnership with ITU later this year.

The Secretary also showcased the Philippines’ efforts in expanding the Free Wifi for public spaces initiative by over 400 percent, enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure, and establishing Digital Transformation Centers to provide accessible digital resources and services. These steps are part of the broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s digital ecosystem and promote digital literacy among its citizens.

Furthermore, the Philippines’ participation in the ITU-led Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development aims to create a supportive environment for digital startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of economic growth and digital transformation.

The country’s dedication to advancing the digital agenda was also recognized at the WSIS Prizes, where the Philippines received two champion titles and one winner award, showcasing its impactful contributions to the global digital community.

Secretary Uy’s address reaffirmed the Philippines’ vision to collaborate more closely with ASEAN Member States, driving the common goals of the ITU and ASEAN to build a more connected and digitally inclusive future. The speech was met with appreciation, setting the stage for fruitful partnerships and shared advancements in the digital era.

The Philippine delegation to the 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) and other Related Meetings in Singapore, held from January 29 to February 3, was composed of a diverse group of professionals from various government agencies and sectors, each bringing their expertise to the forefront of digital innovation and cooperation.

Leading the delegation, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, and outgoing ADGMIN chair, setting the tone for the Philippines’ contributions and engagements in the meetings together with Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, outgoing ADGMSOM chair

In the realm of cybersecurity, Jose Carlos P. Reyes, as Director IV of the Cybersecurity Bureau, and Maria Victoria C. Castro, holding the same position in the National ICT Planning, Policy, and Standard Bureau, and Maria Andrea Hernandez-Lara, the Officer-in-Charge of the International Cooperation Division, also participated.

The National Telecommunications Commission was represented by Engr. Imelda R. Walcien and Mr. Candido Cesar E. Faeldon, who respectively oversaw regulatory compliance and industry planning.

The National Privacy Commission’s delegates were Atty. Maria Theresita A. Patula, Mr. Paulo John M. Villar, and Ms. Jasmin G. Servidad.

The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center’s focus on combating cybercrime was represented by Mr. Cleo B. Dongga-As, Mr. Nathaniel B. Rabonza, and Atty. Christopher C. Tiu.

The Philippine Embassy in Singapore, under the leadership of Ambassador H.E. Medardo G. Macaraig, and supported by Ms. Joyleen E. Santos, Atty. Joy Anne B. Lai, Ms. Joyner Z. Nuera, and Ms. Ivanah Karla F. Vicencio-Luz, also attended the meeting in their diplomatic capacities.

Representing the private sector, Ms. Celeste Ilagan of the IT-Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) as one of the judges for the ASEAN Digital Awards.

Together, this distinguished group represented the Philippines’ commitment to digital advancement, cooperation, and security within the ASEAN framework, working collaboratively to address the challenges and opportunities of the digital era.