Artificial intelligence (AI) may deepen the digital divide in the Philippines unless the government urgently strengthens data systems, expands digital connectivity, and implements safeguards.
Maynard Ngu, best known as the founder and CEO of Cherry Mobile, was accused by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo of acting as an intermediary for Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero in securing funds from projects inserted into the national budget.
IBPAP president Jack Madrid said another growth engine lies in Global Capability Centers — in-house hubs of multinational firms that manage functions from finance and HR to IT, data analytics, and digital services.
In a resolution dated Sept. 9, 2025, the SEC granted Jia’s Motion for Partial Reconsideration and confirmed that the earlier suspension of its Certificate of Authority was administrative in nature and not related to the company’s lending practices or business model.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) announced on Thursday, Sept. 25, that it will stop accepting new applications for digital banking licenses beginning Dec. 1, 2025, effectively closing the application window just 11 months after it was reopened.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has designated Nathaniel S. Arevalo, deputy director general for policy, legal and external relations, as acting director general of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), following the resignation of IPOPHL chief Brigitte M. da Costa-Villaluz.
Carlo Almendral returned home to launch the AIFirst Institute, a groundbreaking AI education hub that aims to “Build AI careers. Fund a cause. Do both.”
