DICT Highlights Fiber Backbone, Telecom Reforms in U.S. Investor Briefing

NEW YORK - The Philippines is stepping up its digital transformation push, pitching major infrastructure projects, telecom reforms, and artificial intelligence readiness to U.S. tech leaders and investors during a high-level roundtable in New York.

The Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York (PTIC-NY), together with the Philippine Consulate General in New York, hosted the closed-door briefing with Henry Rhoel Aguda, head of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), bringing together top executives, investors, and technology professionals at the Philippine Center in Manhattan.

Aguda made it clear: nationwide internet connectivity is the backbone of the country’s digital future. He reported steady progress on the National Fiber Backbone, a massive project set to connect the country from Luzon to Mindanao with fast, reliable, and secure internet access. The government, he said, is also on track to deliver internet connectivity to all public schools, with state universities and colleges next in line.

The DICT chief highlighted sweeping telecom reforms, including the Konektadong Pinoy Program and spectrum policy changes designed to fast-track infrastructure rollout and promote shared facilities. These moves, he said, have reignited investor interest and boosted momentum among telecom providers.

Aguda also pointed to the government’s push to modernize public services through digital tools. He cited the rollout of the National Single Window for trade, the growing use of artificial intelligence across government platforms, and blockchain applications aimed at improving transparency and accountability in public finance.

Private-sector participants weighed in on fast-growing sectors such as fintech, Web3, education technology, and impact investing, stressing the need for clear and flexible rules that encourage innovation while protecting consumers.

The meeting wrapped up with plans to formally establish a New York-based ICT council that will link U.S. stakeholders with Philippine digital initiatives. Organizers said follow-up briefings and engagements are lined up ahead of major economic and investment activities in 2026, as the Philippines positions itself as a serious player in next-generation technologies.