Philippines Approves Major Digital Infrastructure Project Ahead of Upcoming US-Philippines Cyber-Digital Dialogue

On June 26, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board chaired by President Marcos approved the PHP 16.1 B (~ USD 288 M) Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP), which is expected to (i) enhance broadband connectivity in disadvantaged areas, (ii) augment digital infrastructure to bridge the digital divide, (iii) stimulate private sector investments, and (iv) strengthen the capacity for cybersecurity . PDIP involves the construction of a public broadband infrastructure network – backbone network, middle-mile network, access network (last mile), network security, and project management support – meant to support increased broadband services resulting from work from home arrangements and digital access to public and private services. The project is anchored on the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) National Broadband Program and will be funded through a development assistance package from the World Bank. The World Bank has called on the Philippine Government to increase its investment in broadband infrastructure as the country reportedly continues to lag its Asian neighbors. During the same meeting, the NEDA board also approved adjustments to the parameters of nine different infrastructure projects.
 
The Philippines has seen an increasing number of cyber-attacks targeting Government websites as geopolitical tensions escalate in the region. To further address challenges related to the digital economy, the US and the Philippines are set to hold the first of its kind cyber-digital policy dialogue meant to discuss bilateral opportunities related to protecting critical infrastructure, building a safer cyberspace, and upgrading the skillsets for the digital workforce. On the margins of this said dialogue, the US-ASEAN Business Council will hold a roundtable and reception with DICT Secretary Ivan Uy and Department of State’s Deputy Assistant Secretary Steve Lang for an in-depth discussion on public-private partnerships in the cyber-digital space.