DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024 final call for partners made
DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024, the region’s largest technology and developer conference, is rapidly approaching with its “Weaving Tech for All” theme. The event, set for June 29-30 in Davao City, is issuing a final call for partners as preparations reach their final stages.
To solidify plans and gather support, the DEVCON team embarked on a tour of key Mindanao cities from March 1 to 11, 2024. They met with local tech leaders, ecosystem enablers, and government units. The summit will spotlight presentations and panels led by Mindanao’s leading tech innovators, showcasing case studies across industries like healthcare, retail, agriculture, and construction.
The DEVCON team’s efforts were met with widespread enthusiasm from academic, government, and industry sectors throughout Mindanao, signaling a commitment to accessible, inclusive innovation.
Key highlights of the tour included: a courtesy visit with Mayor Frederick “Freddie” Siao and discussions with iDEYA: Center for Innovation and Technopreneurship, Iligan Medical Center College, and local government officials; a gathering with representatives from Ingenuity, Mugna Tech, CODEV, Davao DEFI, Davao Interschool Computer Enthusiasts, UPMin SPARCS, and discussions with government officers.
Meetings with aspiring DEVCON Chapter leaders and discussions with Central Mindanao University; partnership agreements with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region 10 and a community dinner to connect with local tech leaders.
Tech leaders like Accenture, CoDev, Talino Venture Studios, Internet Computer Protocol Hub, Ingenuity, Ever Accountable, IONA, and Nuxify have already pledged their support as sponsors for DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024. Limited partnership and sponsorship opportunities remain available.
Interested brands seeking sponsorship or organizations looking to partner can email [email address removed] for more information.
How high-speed 5G mobile data bridges the digital divide
DITO Telecommunity, plays a significant role in expanding digital access and bridging the divide in the Philippines. Its 5G Standalone (SA) network, a dedicated, cutting-edge infrastructure designed to optimize the benefits of 5G technology.
This approach surpasses other carriers that rely on a non-standalone (NSA) 5G approach which utilizes legacy 4G infrastructure. DITO’s 5G SA offering, with its ultra-low latency and potential for innovative use cases, provides a superior 5G experience.
To truly bridge the digital divide, access and affordability must go hand-in-hand. DITO recognizes this by introducing a range of mobile postpaid and prepaid options designed to cater to diverse needs and budgets. Postpaid plans offer generous data allowances and unlimited calls and texts, while prepaid options provide flexibility and tailored usage packages.
For example, DITO’s SIM Starter Pack allows customers to try their network while enjoying an introductory data package. The company’s regular prepaid ‘Level-Up’ options deliver balanced combinations of data, call, and text allowances at competitive prices. DITO’s pricing aims to make reliable connectivity accessible to a wider portion of the population, a critical step in reducing digital inequity.
Alongside affordability, convenience is also crucial for bridging the divide. DITO’s user-friendly mobile app and intuitive self-service features simplify account management and data package purchases, empowering users regardless of their technical expertise. DITO strives to make mobile solutions approachable, whether for experienced smartphone users or those in rural areas experiencing comprehensive connectivity for the first time.
As 5G infrastructure expands and adoption grows, Filipinos can expect a transformation in many aspects of everyday life. From enhanced educational opportunities, especially in remote locations, to streamlined government services and telehealth options, 5G-driven connectivity has the potential to improve quality of life and level the playing field for communities currently on the wrong side of the digital divide.
Twilio study says Filipino businesses grapple with AI
for engagement
A recent study by Twilio reveals a significant disconnect between Filipino consumers’ high expectations for AI transparency and brands’ efforts to meet this demand. The global report, “2024 State of Customer Engagement,” explores AI implementation trends and the importance of data in driving personalized customer experiences.
Transparency is paramount for Filipino consumers, with 77 percent demanding clear information about how their data is used in AI-powered interactions. This emphasis on transparency underscores the market’s strong focus on ethical and responsible AI use.
Filipino businesses also recognize the importance of data protection, with 41 percent citing it as their top challenge in effective customer engagement. Filipino consumers demonstrate a strong preference for personalization, with 57 percent being more likely to spend with brands offering tailored experiences.
Additionally, 78 percent indicate they would abandon a brand that fails to deliver personalized interactions, highlighting the importance of this engagement strategy in the Philippines.
Globally, businesses recognize the value of personalization, yet only 16 percent report having the necessary customer data to achieve it effectively. This points to an ongoing need for improved data collection and management strategies. Interestingly, 60 percent of Filipino businesses leverage AI for risk and fraud management, underscoring the importance of customer data protection in a region susceptible to online scams. On average, consumers globally spend 54 percent more with brands that personalize experiences, highlighting the potential financial benefits of investing in tailored customer interactions.
The Twilio report highlights several actionable steps Filipino businesses can take to enhance customer engagement through AI. Prioritizing transparency by clearly communicating how customer data is used and implementing robust privacy policies is crucial for building trust.
Investing in data solutions like CRMs and customer data platforms (CDPs) can help businesses gather, manage, and leverage customer information responsibly. Embracing AI-powered personalization through strategies that tailor interactions across various touchpoints can lead to increased customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Paymongo expands to drive financial growth
PAYMONGO, a Filipino financial technology company, recently marked its fifth anniversary by announcing an expansion of its focus. The company aims to transition from primarily a payment gateway provider to a broader digital financial services solutions provider in an effort to drive growth within the Philippines’ digital economy.
“Our refocused vision and the execution of a no-nonsense strategy have propelled PayMongo to contribute to the financial ecosystem. We’ve introduced innovative digital financial solutions that cater to the diverse needs of businesses, both online and offline,” said PayMongo CEO Jojo Malolos.
Malolos highlighted the company’s efforts to support the growth of MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises) by helping them become active participants in the digital economy.
PayMongo Chairperson and Co-Founder Luis Sia acknowledged the challenges the company has overcome in the past five years and emphasized the strong foundation PayMongo has built, allowing it to become a significant player in the digital economy.
The company’s new strategic direction appears to have been well-received by key stakeholders. PayMongo’s 5th-anniversary celebration included representatives from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines), CEOs and executives from major banking partners, as well as members of PayMongo’s Board of Directors.
Since its founding in 2019, PayMongo has played a significant role in modernizing online payment solutions in the Philippines. This latest evolution aims to further broaden the financial services it offers, creating a more inclusive and integrated digital economy.
