TRADE SECRETARY Ramon M. Lopez rallied young entrepreneurs to utilize technology for coming up with new business enterprises, especially in helping the country develop the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. “For many young entrepreneurs today the digital age is really great opportunity for many of you. The advantage of the young you are all technology savvy. That is your advantage and you can do so much with technology nowadays,” he said during the Youth Entrepreneurship Program’s (YEP) Mindanao Roadshow in Davao City yesterday. Mr. Lopez, who is also the chair of the MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises) Development Council cited AI as an industry that the youth can participate in. “You can start with the business with little capital… In technology you need a big idea and you can have a big chance to succeed. We really encourage you to look into new business models. The digital transformation needs a lot of you,” Mr. Lopez said, noting that the Department of Trade and Industry and government agencies have various programs offering support. He said the Philippines has a good chance in excelling in the AI industry given the available manpower. “With all these partners we try to create a very robust AI manpower in the Philippines,” the DTI chief said. YEP aims to help young Filipinos develop their entrepreneurial skills by offering them a comprehensive package of interventions. Republic Act No. 10679, the Youth Entrepreneurial Act, mandates the MSME Development Council to implement a national program to promote youth entrepreneurship development. — Maya M. Padillo

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