Secretary Ivan John Uy of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan, with the aim of strengthening to accelerate development, enhancement, and integration in the field of ICT between the Philippines and Japan.

“The Philippine Government and the Government of Japan have a long history of collaboration and the signed MOC will only strengthen our cooperative efforts,” Secretary Uy said in a media advisory. “As a developing country, we are sure to gain valuable insights and support from Japan, especially in the field of ICT.”

Within a five-year period, they will be working together in the formulation and facilitation of joint ICT projects; as well as exchanging professionals, delegations, and information on policies, technologies, and regulations in the field of ICT. To promote areas of cooperation, liaison with other government agencies, and industrial, academic, and professional organizations are also encouraged. 

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The two agencies aim to work on the smooth transition to Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting and the utilization of Emergency Warning Broadcasting System (EWBS) in the Philippines. 

Strengthening the utilization of 5G technology is also among the priorities in the MOC especially in improving broadband infrastructure and service provision in the Philippines. According to the DICT, the two countries aim to diversify the 5G suppliers and develop open, secure, and resilient 5G network. 

With cybersecurity becoming a serious concern, the Philippines and Japan plan to come up with capacity-building programs to address the skills gap in the industry. The two countries will also be bolstering previous cooperations such as digital transformation, big data and artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and cultural relationships through broadcasting content.

“As a developing country, we are sure to gain valuable insights and support from Japan, especially in the field of ICT,” Secretary Uy said.

In photo: DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy (left) and Japan Vice Minister for Policy Coordination Hiroshi Yoshida (right) during the 3rd ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting