Aboitiz adopts digital transformation amid pandemic

THE Aboitiz Group is supporting the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Advisory Council Philippines’ (ABAC PH) recommendation to adopt a digital transformation approach to address the short- and long-term economic impact of Covid-19.

“Digital technology has already disrupted businesses and jobs. Now, Covid-19 has ushered in a new normal. Online tools and digitally-enabled platforms should be accessible to businesses and individuals to operate and work in a post-Covid environment,” said ABAC member and Aboitiz Group President and Chief Executive Officer Sabin Aboitiz.

ABAC PH believes digital connectivity is critical in addressing the logistics and competitiveness challenges of the Philippines.

“We need to fast track building the infrastructure to establish the digital highways that would interconnect the Philippines’ 7,640 islands. This is critical to stimulate our local industries and create the scale in order to fully engage in international trade and be part of global value chains,” said ABAC PH Chair Tomas Alcantara.

ABAC PH stressed that government interventions should integrate digital technologies to provide innovative solutions in facilitating ease of doing business. This will also improve productivity and efficiency in support programs such as financial inclusion and adaptive learning and training.

In a letter to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez, ABAC PH called on the government to implement measures, including possible efforts with Association of Southeast Asian Nation neighbors and key trade partners to ensure the free flow of goods and services.

With businesses restarting and economies reopening, ABAC PH urged for public-private dialogue to discuss strategies and lessons that would best benefit the Philippines in the short and long term.