TECHNOLOGY COMPANY Cisco is boosting efforts to help the country address gaps in access to information and communications technology (ICT) resources and limited manpower in the field of technology.

Through its country digital acceleration (CDA) program, the company hopes to help the Philippines achieve inclusive and sustainable digitization, Cisco Senior Vice-President & Global Innovation Officer Guy Diedric said in an e-mailed statement on Wednesday.

“Our CDA program uniquely positions Cisco and our partners to be the bridge between a country’s digital ambitions and the benefits of a digital future,” he added.

According to Cisco, its model is based on engagement across ecosystem partners in the public and private sectors.

“Through CDA, we can support our community leaders in addressing key societal challenges by harnessing strategic co-investment and relentless co-innovation,” Mr. Diedric said.

The company noted it has invested “hundreds of millions of dollars” over the past five years in more than 40 countries.

It has 1,200 active or completed projects across 44 countries through the CDA program.

“Our local CDA program [was launched] two years ago with the idea to build not just a campaign, but an open platform wherein existing, ongoing, and upcoming ICT-related plans can be enacted on — whether it be through access to Cisco technology, knowledge-sharing, or stakeholder engagement, regardless of sector or industry,” Cisco Philippines Managing Director Zaza Nicart said.

Experts have said the Philippines should continue to develop digital infrastructure in order to drive economic recovery, as the pandemic helped accelerate digital transformation initiatives for both the public and private sector. — Arjay L. Balinbin

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