MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Senate Committee on Science and Technology, headed by Sen. Bam Aquino, is moving to future-proof the IT-BPM sector against the growing AI and cyber threats.
As one of the pillars of the Philippine economy, bringing 8.2% of GDP, there’s an urgent need to sustain it. The Senate Resolution No. 253 Sen. Aquino proposed will “review the sector’s transformation and challenges and to strengthen its ability to withstand emerging threats,” looking into policies, education, and workforce interventions.
We know our position is at risk because of the rapid evolution of technology. We need to come together to address these issues so the industry can grow further and remain protected.
All to Protect Filipino Workers
The Senate panel emphasizes that the hearing’s central concern is protecting the stable employment opportunities Filipinos have thanks to the IT-BPM sector.
Because of IT-BPM, a new middle class of Filipinos emerged—workers who found steady jobs without needing to go abroad, and who were able to uplift their lives and support their families.
If we don’t act, this industry we want to strengthen—one that has helped many Filipinos—could decline.
Sen. Aquino then proposed that they focus on these key areas:
Workforce Preparedness
- Double down on reskilling programs for employees
- Review academic programs to ensure they remain aligned with current and emerging IT-BPM requirements
Cybersecurity
- Examine the adequacy of existing laws and policies
- Analyze the oversight function of these laws and policies in ensuring the government can support the IT-BPM’s growth and ease of doing business
