THE SiGMA Asia Summit 2024, held last June 3 to 5, provided a platform for Filipino gig workers and gamers to connect with industry leaders and forge partnerships. The event, drawing over 20,000 delegates and 300 exhibitors, highlighted the thriving gaming landscape in the region.
Digital Pilipinas (DP), a key player in technology and innovation advocacy, partnered with the summit as a media partner, recognizing the economic impact of the gig and gaming sectors.
The summit emphasized the importance of regulated online gambling, with SiGMA World and AIBC World founder Eman Pulis advocating for government regulation in Asia. DP Convenor Amor Maclang stressed the need for supporting iGaming mainstreaming as crucial for the Philippines’ digital economy.
Cybersecurity was a key focus, with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlighting online risks and urging individuals to prioritize personal protection. Congressman Christopher de Venecia discussed the impact of emerging technology on creative economies, emphasizing the need for private-sector solutions in areas like intellectual property, AI regulation, and gig worker support.
Digital Pilipinas participated in panel discussions throughout the event.
The discussion included; “Bridging the Gap: Empowerment through Digital Identities” featured Stephanie Tower, Country Lead at nChain; Penny Chai, VP of Business Development APAC at SumSub; Amor Maclang, Convenor of Digital Pilipinas; and Lawrence Ferrer, President and CEO of CIS Bayad Cener, Inc., moderated by Torben Friis, Managing Director of Match Liquidity.
“Beyond Banking: Exploring AI’s Diverse Applications in Fintech, Agriculture, and Healthtech” was a panel that gave insights from Jennifer Joy Subang, COO of AgriDOM Solutions; Abdul Mikael, COO of AND Solutions; Christo Georgiev, COO of FinScore; and Rafael Sindiong, Senior Presale Manager of Wiz AI technology.
Moderated by Brady Hicox, Chief Information Security Officer at Orange and Bronze Software Labs, the panel discussion tackled the expansive role of AI beyond the banking sector and will highlight its impact on fintech, agriculture, and health tech. Finally, “Exploring the Rise in Esports in the Philippines: Gamers and Gigsters” featured Roberto Tayag, CEO for Asia Pacific at CyberQ Group; Brian Dacanay, AVP of Tier One Entertainment; Atty. Isaiah San Miguel, Scholastic Partnerships Manager at AcadArena.
Technological innovations showcased at the SiGMA Affiliate Startup Pitch Asia, such as gaming animation and compliance platforms, were praised for their potential to revolutionize industries.
The SiGMA Foundation’s support for initiatives like the Autism Society of the Philippines aligned with the summit’s aim to set new benchmarks for responsible gaming expos. This commitment was highlighted by a performance by Peggy Geiser, an award-winning neuroatypical artist.
