President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is pushing for expanded internet access and stronger cybersecurity measures to encourage Filipinos to use digital banking and other online services.

Malacañang said the priorities were discussed during a meeting between Marcos and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure Sector Group at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, November 3.

The administration is seeking greater private-sector involvement in expanding internet infrastructure, particularly in remote communities where limited or unavailable connectivity restricts access to education, government services and business opportunities.

Marcos is also reviewing the progress of the Bayanihan SIM Project, which aims to provide connectivity to more Filipinos.

The government is placing emphasis on consumer protection and cybersecurity as financial transactions and commercial activities increasingly shift online. These measures are intended to help people and small businesses conduct digital banking, pay bills and sell products with greater confidence.

The administration also sees digital technology as a means of creating jobs and allowing micro, small and medium enterprises to reach wider markets without leaving their communities.

During the meeting, Marcos also reviewed private-sector proposals involving emerging industries, including the space economy, and ways to develop local talent and encourage skilled Filipino professionals to pursue careers in the country.

The government said closer cooperation with businesses would help build a more inclusive digital economy through improved connectivity, secure online services and expanded economic opportunities.

Smart Communications Inc. has upgraded its 5G network coverage and capacity in parts of Siargao Island ahead of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event at Cloud 9 in General Luna, which runs until November 10.

Smart said its network covers key locations in General Luna, including Cloud 9, as well as Siargao Airport, Siargao Seaport and other areas.

The upgrades are intended to accommodate increased demand for mobile connectivity during the competition, which is bringing athletes, media personnel, content creators and spectators to the island.

The Philippines is hosting a stop on the WSL Championship Tour for the first time.

Smart First Vice President and officer-in-charge Lloyd Manaloto said the network improvements were part of the company’s efforts to support connectivity needs of residents, businesses and visitors.

Mobile services are used for digital payments, accommodation and transport bookings, communications and other online activities, particularly in tourism areas.

Smart said visitors with 5G-compatible devices can access selected Unli 5G offers, which include unlimited 5G data and non-stop 4G data, starting at P90 for three days.

The company also offers postpaid plans with a Device Link feature that allows subscribers to use their primary mobile number and plan on a smartwatch for calls, text messages and mobile data when their iPhone is not nearby.

Subscribers who avail of selected offers at designated Smart booths and partner stores in Siargao may also receive promotional items.

Smart said the network upgrades form part of its investments in mobile connectivity across the country. The company also cited recognition from network intelligence firm Ookla for Best Mobile Latency and Best Mobile Video Experience.

Smart representatives turned over the AI-in-a-Box package to Atty Sahagun (center). It contained a Smart 5G WiFi device, Smart prepaid load cards, and an AI tool subscription and is part of PLDT and Smart’s broader efforts to make emerging technologies more accessible through a combination of connectivity, digital tools, and learning opportunities.

More than 50 employees of the Palawan provincial government have undergone training on artificial intelligence (AI) applications as part of efforts to improve administrative processes and public service delivery.

The session was conducted by PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. under their AI-in-a-Box initiative, which aims to help local government units develop digital skills and explore the use of emerging technologies in government operations.

Participants from various provincial offices were introduced to AI tools that could assist with research, content development, administrative tasks and public engagement.

The initiative also included the turnover of an AI-in-a-Box package containing a Smart 5G WiFi device, prepaid load cards and an AI tool subscription.

Palawan Provincial Administrator Jefrie Sahagun, who opened the session on behalf of Gov. Amy Alvarez, said AI adoption should focus on improving the quality of public services.

He said technology could help government employees work more efficiently but should not replace human judgment, compassion and accountability.

Christian Anthony T. Villon, a supervising administrative officer and data protection officer at the provincial government, said employees were interested in using AI to handle routine tasks such as meeting transcription and other administrative work.

He also cited the potential of the technology to automate manual processes and speed up the delivery of government services.

PLDT and Smart said the initiative forms part of their efforts to support local government units through connectivity, digital tools and training opportunities.