SINGAPORE – In what was touted as the first keynote by a head of state using hologram technology, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged global financial technology investors to explore opportunities in the Philippines, as he vowed to foster an environment of collaboration and commitment to digital transformation.
While headed to San Francisco in the United States to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, Mr. Marcos virtually attended the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) via a prerecorded hologram message to drum up interest for tech investing opportunities in the country, which he said was “ready to adapt new technologies to respond to the demands of our regional and global challenges.”
He said numerous public-private partnerships projects (PPP) in the country were aimed at keeping pace with the rapidly evolving information technology and communication (ICT) landscape.
“The Philippines is likewise cementing its position as a hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, with a dynamic startup scene that holds immense promise,” he said.
Attended by thousands of technopreneurs, investors and key decision-makers, Mr. Marcos acknowledged the annual SFF as a “global platform for sharing, learning, and cooperation, essential elements in nurturing an inclusive and sustainable financial sector.”
“I invite you all to join us in shaping the digital future of the financial sector,” the President said. “The Philippines—with its innovative spirit and openness to collaboration—is eager to work with you in seizing all the opportunities that lie ahead.”
He cited initiatives such as GoDigital Pilipinas —facilitated by the Private Sector Advisory Council—as among those that stood out among our many promising endeavors.
GoDigital aims to propel the nation’s digital landscape to new heights by empowering its citizens and businesses through digital innovation.
“We invite you to look at these startups and explore potential partnerships to ensure our mutual growth and shared prosperity,” he said.
“The Philippines also recognizes the growing presence of digital banking and the importance of inclusive finance in our financial landscape, so that no one will be left behind in our pursuit of progress and prosperity.”
He added that the Philippines was putting great emphasis on the digitalization of all cashflow, regardless of amount or scale, so that Filipinos can start building a digital profile.