BGA Philippines Managing Director Victor Andres Manhit wrote an update to clients on the Philippines’ new priorities in digital policy. 

Context 

  • Robert Joseph “Jay” De Claro formally assumed office as secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) October 19, succeeding Henry Aguda. At his first flag-raising ceremony at the DICT headquarters in Quezon City, he identified cheaper, better internet and faster licensing for internet service providers (ISPs) as his top priorities.   
  • He was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. October 13, following Aguda’s resignation amid the alleged “ghost internet” controversy and public criticism over the proposed ban on the internet platform Discord. An official reason for his resignation was not disclosed. De Claro previously served as president and CEO of the Social Security System (SSS) and brings extensive private sector and digital technology experience, including board roles at UnionBank and Union Digital Bank. 
  • Prior to his DICT appointment, De Claro served as president and CEO of the SSS. He also served as vice chair of the Social Security Commission, bringing over 33 years of experience in creating and leading startups and operating entities. Before his SSS appointment, De Claro represented the employer sector on the Social Security Commission beginning January 11, 2023, where he chaired the Information Technology and Collection Committee and served on committees covering audit, risk, investment and governance. 

Significance 

  • De Claro’s agenda covers six priority areas, based on remarks he made October 13 and 19: Affordable and reliable internet, streamlined licensing for ISPs, DICT as a “lighthouse” for government digitalization, organizational revamp, cybersecurity and cybercrime coordination, operational review and online safety. 
Priority Area Announced Measures Stated Timeline 
Affordable, reliable internet Lower internet prices and improve telco services Ongoing 
Faster ISP licensing Cut red tape and streamline ISP licensing Not specified 
DICT as a “lighthouse” Guide agencies and GOCCs in using technology for public services Not specified 
Organizational revamp Restructure the DICT and strengthen cybersecurity leadership Underway 
Cybersecurity Convene the CICC council Week of October 19 
Operational review and online safety Review projects, budgets, and procurement; monitor free Wi-Fi; strengthen online child protection Plan within three months 

Implications 

  • De Claro’s appointment could have several implications for the private sector. 
  • Telecommunications companies and ISPs: De Claro’s push for lower internet prices and improved service quality could bring closer scrutiny of telecommunications providers, even as licensing procedures are streamlined. Providers participating in the government’s free Wi-Fi program may also face stricter monitoring of equipment and service reliability. 
  • Government technology providers: The planned review of DICT projects, budgets and procurement could affect existing and prospective government ICT engagements. At the same time, the department’s digitalization priorities and planned eNotarization integration could create opportunities for technology and digital trust service providers. The three-month planning period may provide greater clarity on future priorities. 
  • Digital platforms and cybersecurity firms: The focus on online child protection and potential social media restrictions for minors could introduce new compliance expectations. Meanwhile, stronger cybersecurity coordination and De Claro’s emphasis on cross-sector cooperation could create opportunities for partnerships with industry and international stakeholders. 
     

We will continue to keep you updated on developments in the Philippines as they occur. If you have any questions or comments, please contact BGA Philippines Managing Director Victor Andres Manhit at vmanhit@bowergroupasia.com.  

Best regards,   

BGA Philippines Team 

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Managing Director

Dindo is recognized as one of Manila’s most well-connected and savvy advisers on developments in government and business in the Philippines. Concurrent with his role as managing director for the BGA Philippines office, he is also the founder and managing director of the Stratbase Group and president of its policy think tank, the Stratbase Institute for Strategic and International Studies.  Since 1991, Dindo has served as a member of the faculty and is the former chair of the Political Science Department and a senior fellow of the La Salle Institute of Governance at the De La Salle University, Manila. He has authored numerous papers on good governance, political, electoral and educational reform. He specializes ... Read More