QUEZON City 1st District Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde emphasized that the House of Representatives is at the forefront of passing measures that will ensure the country’s adoption of digital technologies in a responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking manner. Speaking at the 31st Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) Roundtable of Young Parliamentarians, Atayde highlighted the House’s commitment to utilizing digital technologies to promote interconnectivity, expand their reach, and enhance responsiveness to the needs of the people.
One of the significant steps taken by the House is the creation of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Additionally, the House recently passed House Bill (HB) 7327, known as the proposed “E-Governance Act,” which aims to harmonize and coordinate the digitization efforts of all government offices and agencies. Atayde, as one of the principal authors of HB 7327, stressed the importance of this legislation in laying the groundwork for a data transmission industry that is open, fair, and interoperable. He firmly believes that involving the private sector is crucial for ensuring an inclusive digital transformation for the country.
Recognizing the potential risks associated with digitalization, Atayde also highlighted the House’s efforts to address concerns related to educational, socioeconomic, and urban-rural inequalities. The House passed HB 6, also known as the “Open Access in Data Transmission Act,” which aims to mitigate these issues. Atayde emphasized the importance of striking a balance between digital innovation and security, ensuring that the country’s digital transformation is both progressive and secure.
It is worth noting that the Philippines already has existing laws in place to safeguard digital activities. These include the Data Privacy Act, Cybercrime Prevention Act, and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act. These laws provide a framework for protecting individuals’ privacy, preventing cybercrime, and regulating the use of SIM cards.
The 31st annual meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) was held in the Philippines from November 23-26, 2023. With the theme “Resilient Partnerships for Peace, Prosperity, and Sustainability,” the forum provided a platform for participants to discuss various pressing issues. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in a speech delivered by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, expressed his hope that participants would utilize the forum to engage in discussions on digital innovation, regional security, transnational crime, free and fair trade, and sustainable and equal economic growth.
The House of Representatives’ proactive approach to digital transformation demonstrates its commitment to harnessing the potential of digital technologies for the benefit of the Filipino people. By passing legislation that promotes interconnectivity, coordination, and inclusivity, the House is paving the way for a more digitally advanced and equitable future for the country.
Source: The Manila Times
