PUBLIC-PRIVATE partnerships (PPPs) are essential to bridging the digital divide and accelerating technological adoption in the Philippines, Globe Telecom Inc. said.
It noted that at the recent GSMA Digital Nation Summit in Manila, Globe Vice President Emmanuel Estrada had emphasized the importance of government and private sector collaboration to address the evolving needs of Filipinos in the digital age.
Globe said that it was actively engaged in initiatives such as the Connectivity Plan Task Force, led by the Private Sector Advisory Council and comprised by mobile network operators, tower companies, and government stakeholders.
The task force works toward maximizing existing networks, constructing over 150 new sites, and exploring innovative technologies, such as satellite services to serve geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
The role of government policy is pivotal in enabling PPPs to thrive, Estrada pointed out during the summit.
He highlighted the need to revise outdated regulations and establish transparent, consistent, and stable policy frameworks to encourage private sector investment and ensure that long-term partnerships remain mutually beneficial.
“The old, antiquated policies are no longer effective and relevant in today’s digital economy. Once that is addressed, let’s streamline all the processes,” Estrada said.
“We’ve made a lot of headway. EO (Executive Order) 32, for example, has helped speed up our network deployments in the last three years, getting us to where we are right now in terms of connectivity. Those antiquated policies, some dating back to 1931, are the ones that we need to really work on together with the government.”
EO 32 streamlined the permits process for telecommunications infrastructure.
Globe said it had seen a 20-percent improvement in permits processing between 2022 and 2024, with several local government units simplifying their permits procedures.
Beyond addressing policy barriers, PPPs must look into delivering solutions that meet the specific needs of the public, Estrada said, underscoring the importance of aligning technology with real-world applications that bring value to individuals and communities.
He noted that while 96 percent of the population was covered by at least a 3G or 4G signal, only 63 percent maintained active subscriptions, with much of the usage concentrated on social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok.
While these platforms provide avenues for personal business and entertainment, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing usability that enriches lives.
“First, let’s fix connectivity, and once that’s done, let’s improve usability,” Estrada said.
“It’s one thing to have the connection, but using it effectively and learning how to benefit from it is something else,” he added.
“The usability we’re focusing on involves people using connectivity for educational purposes, reconnecting with long-lost relatives, accessing health consultations, and managing their finances. That’s when it truly brings value.”
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