President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on August 25, 2025, urged stronger defenses against technology-driven risks such as AI-powered scams and digital fraud during the Manila Tech Summit 2025 in Taguig. He outlined government initiatives, including new laws, digital infrastructure projects, and upskilling programs, aimed at protecting Filipinos while expanding opportunities through a more connected and inclusive digital economy.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for heightened vigilance and stronger defenses against risks posed by rapid technological advancement, particularly the growing sophistication of scams and fraudulent schemes aided by artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and borderless cyber syndicates.
Speaking at the Manila Tech Summit 2025 in Taguig, President Marcos stressed that while technology brings progress, it also carries dangers, likening it to a powerful tool that “cuts both ways.” He said the government is addressing these risks through legislation such as the Anti-Financial Account Summary Scamming Act, the Internet Transactions Act, and the SIM Registration Act, as well as measures like suspending in-app gambling features in digital payment platforms. An e-commerce bureau has also been set up to streamline consumer complaints and compliance.
The President emphasized that the government is investing in training programs to reskill and upskill Filipinos in AI, cybersecurity, e-commerce, and creative design to prepare the workforce for jobs of the future.
President Marcos also underscored the importance of technological investments to narrow the wealth gap and improve daily life, noting that digitalization has already made transactions faster and government services more accessible. In 2024, digital payments accounted for over half of transactions nationwide, with the digital economy contributing ₱2.25 trillion, or 8.5 percent of GDP, and generating 11.3 million jobs.
To support further growth, the government is investing in the National Fiber Backbone Project, slated for completion in 2028, which aims to deliver high-speed internet to 17 million Filipinos. President Marcos also highlighted the Free Wi-Fi for All program, designed to equip students and teachers with essential online tools.
“We envision a Philippines where every Filipino can reach their full potential and where new technologies open wider possibilities for all,” President Marcos said, pledging that the government would continue building infrastructure and policies “brick by brick, gigabyte by gigabyte.”
