Malacañang expressed optimism on Monday regarding the upcoming visit of Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go to the United States in early May, anticipating favorable results for the Philippines.
During a press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro conveyed this hopeful outlook, stating, “we should always be hopeful because our world and our country are not entirely bleak.”
She further disclosed that the economic team is currently convening to finalize the agenda that will be presented during their meetings in May.
This visit comes against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s announcement on April 2 regarding the imposition of reciprocal tariffs, a move with potential ramifications for Southeast Asian economies. While the Philippines faced an initial tariff of 17 percent, this was comparatively lower than levies imposed on some of its regional neighbors. Subsequently, Trump announced a 90-day pause, accompanied by a universal reduction in the reciprocal tariff to 10 percent. In contrast, tariffs on goods from China saw a significant surge to 145 percent.
In a separate matter, Undersecretary Castro assured the public of the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the May 12 midterm elections. This assurance comes through the strengthening of the nation’s digital infrastructure for the electoral process.
“Through Digital Bayanihan, the DICT will ensure the safety of the elections, and that the vote of every Filipino will remain sacred,” Castro affirmed during the Malacañang press briefing.
She noted that the DICT and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Advisory Council (CAC) convened last week to address the conduct of secure and credible elections amidst growing threats in the digital sphere.
“The CAC, composed of various sectors, regularly meets to discuss issues related to the elections. Discussions also covered digital and automated election systems and recommendations for COMELEC,” Castro explained.
A central component of this initiative, “Digital Bayanihan,” involves collaboration with major technology companies, including TikTok, Google, and Meta. These platforms are now implementing a ban on paid political advertisements, according to Castro.
The DICT specified that Google has enforced this ban since the commencement of the official campaign period to support the objective of clean and fair elections.
Castro also highlighted the agencies’ initiative to establish “Configuration Hubs” aimed at streamlining the election process. Furthermore, online tools are being developed, such as a precinct results finder, a registration status verifier, and a website for real-time monitoring of election results and access to election data.
“This also includes cybersecurity initiatives such as vulnerability testing, security protocols, and the use of the Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure or PNPKI digital certificates for teachers who will serve as electoral board members,” Castro concluded.
