Telco CEO warns red tape choking businesses

CEBU, Philippines — Converge ICT Solutions Inc. Chief Executive Officer Dennis Anthony Uy called for stronger governance and reduced bureaucratic barriers, saying corruption and red tape threaten to undermine the Philippines’ ability to attract investment and capitalize on artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

Speaking at the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo on Oct. 14, Uy said the country’s digital ambitions must be matched by transparent institutions and policies that allow businesses to innovate, expand and compete in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

“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,” Uy said. “But let us be honest: our old habits are getting in the way. Corruption holds back our progress. Red tape chokes our small businesses.”

The remarks highlight a challenge for the Philippines as it seeks to convert growing investor interest and advances in digital technology into sustained economic growth.  While emerging technologies offer opportunities to improve productivity and create new business models, regulatory bottlenecks and governance weaknesses can raise operating costs and discourage investment.

Uy urged the government to sustain efforts to establish an enabling environment for artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, emphasizing that accountability and efficient public institutions are critical to turning technological potential into economic gains.

He cited Executive Order No. 119, series of 2026, which establishes a Data Residency Framework, and the creation of a Center for AI Research as steps toward strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure and research capabilities.

The policy initiatives reflect the growing importance of data governance and artificial intelligence research as the Philippines seeks a larger role in the global technology economy.

For businesses, the challenge extends beyond access to faster internet connections. Predictable regulations, streamlined government processes and transparent decision-making are also necessary to encourage companies to invest in digital infrastructure, adopt new technologies and develop higher-value services.

Converge, one of the country’s leading fiber broadband providers, has partnered with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) to promote digital adoption among businesses.

In 2025, the company and the business group placed information and communications technology solutions at the center of the Philippine Business Conference and Expo, bringing together more than 85 local and international technology brands to showcase innovations and connect providers with Philippine enterprises.

Uy’s call for governance reforms comes as corruption and inflation remain major public concerns. Pulse Asia Research reported on Oct. 15 that the two issues topped Filipinos’ concerns in its latest “Ulat ng Bayan” survey, highlighting the economic and institutional pressures confronting policymakers.

Uy appeared at the conference alongside PCCI President Perry Ferrer, 52nd PBC&E Chairman Butch Guerrero, PCCI Chairman Jude Aguilar and other business organization executives.