At the 34th South Luzon Area Business Conference (SOLABC) held at the Enchanting Events Place, Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna, Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) delivered a compelling call to action: build a resilient and sustainable Southern Luzon through inclusive digital transformation, highlighting the key role of the business sector in leading this goal.

The conference organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) South Luzon and hosted by the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, marked a significant gathering of business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders on April 24–25, 2025 at the Enchanting Events Place, Enchanted Kingdom, Santa Rosa, Laguna.

With the theme “Building Resilience and Sustainability, Embracing Diversity,” this year’s conference provided a dynamic platform to address the pressing needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Discussions centered on promoting growth mindsets, leveraging digital innovation, embedding sustainability in business models, and reinforcing South Luzon as a premier investment hub.

A major highlight of the event was the Plenary Session on “Harnessing the Power of Technology to Boost MSME Competitiveness, Resilience, and Sustainability”, where Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) delivered an inspiring address.

As an advocate for countryside innovation, digital jobs generation, and startup empowerment, Jocelle emphasized the critical role of digitalization in transforming the MSME sector. She also championed the need for capacity-building programs to ensure MSMEs can leverage technology effectively and sustainably.

Recognizing the urgency of preparing the country for the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, Jocelle underscored the need for robust policy advocacy. She called for the promotion of AI literacy, the establishment of ethical frameworks, and the development of safe and enabling innovation environments across the Philippines.

Digital jobs and skills empowerment was another central theme of her talk. She Jocelle emphasized the need for targeted reskilling programs, particularly for freelancers, BPO workers, women returnees, and out-of-school youth. She pointed to the DICT’s ongoing initiatives in building digital skills to create more inclusive employment opportunities and reduce the digital divide.

Finally, she reaffirmed her commitment to the ICT Council Movement, a long-standing initiative she pioneered to promote decentralized, multi-stakeholder governance. By fostering strong collaboration between local governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector, she said communities can build locally driven ICT agendas that are inclusive, adaptive, and sustainable.

Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue’s presentation resonated deeply with participants, offering not just insights but a vision for how Southern Luzon—and the entire country—can rise through the transformative power of technology. Her call was clear: digital transformation is not just a trend, but a tool for nation-building.

Her participation embodied the conference’s forward-thinking spirit, igniting conversations around inclusive innovation, youth empowerment, and the creation of ICT-enabled job opportunities — advocacies that she tirelessly champions across the nation.

The 34th SOLABC successfully merged tradition with innovation, showcasing the vibrance of South Luzon’s industries while pushing for a future-ready economy. With leaders like Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue at the forefront, the region’s journey towards a digitally empowered and resilient future is well underway.