Converge ICT Solutions Inc. chief executive Dennis Anthony Uy has called for stronger transparency and accountability in government, saying corruption and bureaucratic delays could undermine the Philippines’ ability to attract investment and benefit from emerging technologies.
Speaking at the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo on Oct. 14, Uy said the country needed an environment that would allow businesses to innovate and investors to pursue opportunities in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies.
“Today, global investors and foreign partners are knocking on our door, eager to do business with the Philippines. They see our location, our workforce, and our potential. The opportunity is right in front of us. But let us be honest: our old habits are getting in the way. Corruption holds back our progress. Red tape chokes our small businesses,” Uy said.
His remarks at the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) event linked the country’s digital ambitions with the need for transparent government processes, accountable institutions and policies that support business activity.
Uy cited Executive Order No. 119, series of 2026, which establishes a data residency framework, and the creation of a Center for AI Research as policy initiatives that could strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem and improve its participation in the global technology industry.
The press release did not provide further details on the implementation of these initiatives or quantify their expected impact on investment.
Digital infrastructure and business environment
Converge has worked with PCCI on initiatives to promote digital and information and communications technology solutions among Philippine businesses. In 2025, the company and the business group featured more than 85 local and international technology brands at the Philippine Business Conference and Expo.
The latest conference brought together business leaders to discuss economic development and the country’s competitiveness. Uy appeared onstage with PCCI President Perry Ferrer, conference chairman Butch Guerrero, PCCI Chairman Jude Aguilar and other organization executives.
The governance issue also reflects broader public concerns. According to the Converge announcement, Pulse Asia Research reported on Oct. 15 that corruption and inflation were the two leading issues identified by Filipinos in its latest Ulat ng Bayan survey.
For the telecommunications sector, the business environment affects investment in fiber networks, data centers and other digital infrastructure that requires substantial capital and long-term planning. Transparent regulation and predictable policies can help investors assess projects, although the announcement did not detail any specific telecommunications investment decisions tied to the governance concerns raised by Uy.
Converge, listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange under the ticker CNVRG, provides fixed broadband, data center and network solutions to residential and enterprise customers.
