TECHNOLOGY plays a vital role in shaping the future of the country, the Computer, Literacy, Innovation, Connectivity, and Knowledge (CLICK) party-list group said as it underscored the need for digital literacy and interconnection.
Lawyer Nick Conti, a former commissioner of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission and Presidential Commission on Good Government and the first nominee of the CLICK party list, said technological empowerment will serve as a foundation for national progress, job creation, and social inclusion.
The group is eyeing a constituency of over 80 million people representing various sectors, including education, entrepreneurship, and the workforce.
“The future belongs to the digitally empowered,” Conti said.
Noting the problems faced by various stakeholders within the digital ecosystem, CLICK seeks to increase access to computer literacy programs, foster innovation through technology, ensure nationwide connectivity, and expand knowledge-sharing networks that will empower millions of Filipinos.
Its programs are expected to benefit 85 million internet users with poor infrastructure and connectivity issues, 156 million mobile connections suffering from high data costs and unreliable networks, 84 million social media users who are vulnerable to misinformation and online harassment, 80 million mobile wallet users with data privacy and cybersecurity risk concerns, and 57 million e-commerce buyers hit by scams and inefficiencies in online deliveries.
It is likewise looking to address regulatory uncertainties and fraud risks faced by 10 million cryptocurrency users, the lack of support for professional opportunities for 48 million esports enthusiasts, inconsistent income and lack of legal protections of 1.5 million freelance content creators, logistical struggles of 2 million online sellers, and limited access to affordable financial and communication tools for 2.2 million OFWs to connect with their families.
Conti also said there is a need for the inclusion of 12.3 million senior citizens, for whom technology should offer easier access to government aid, without the need for long queues.
“As a nation of over 85 million internet users, 156 million mobile connections, and 84 million social media users, we are sitting at the intersection of immense opportunities and untapped potential. Through the initiatives of CLICK, we are committed to harnessing the power of technology to ensure that every Filipino, from students to entrepreneurs, is equipped with the tools to succeed in a digital-first world,” Conti said.
“But CLICK isn’t just about technology; it’s about hope. It’s about securing the future of every Filipino,” he also said, as he highlighted the need to prepare younger generations for a tech-driven economy so they can enjoy vast opportunities in digital careers such as software development, esports, and content creation.
He also said CLICK aims to “bridge the distance by using technology” to connect the OFW sector to opportunities here and abroad. “Whether through remote work, tech jobs, or access to better financial services, we want to ensure no Filipino is left behind,” he added.
“Together, we can build a future where technology empowers us, where innovation fuels our economy, and where every Filipino is equipped with the knowledge to thrive,” Conti said.