MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to be more vigilant against fraudulent schemes and scams as the country pushes toward becoming a “truly digital Philippines.”

“We must also recognize that progress comes with challenges. Any powerful tool cuts both ways. In this digital age, we must become more vigilant against the risks that come with it,” Marcos said during the opening of the Manila Tech Summit 2025 at the Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

The President noted that scams are evolving with the help of artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and borderless syndicates. He also cited the risks of job displacement and privacy loss brought about by new technologies.

“This is why we must also strengthen our defenses, manage risks, and block malicious attempts before they harm our people,” Marcos said.

According to the President, government measures against scams include the Anti-Financial Account Summary Scamming Act, the establishment of an e-commerce Bureau under the Internet Transactions Act, and the Subscriber Identity Module Registration Act to protect consumers in digital transactions.

He also cited efforts to reskill and upskill Filipinos for work in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, e-commerce, and creative design.

Marcos said the government is addressing the problem of online gambling by suspending in-app gambling access in mobile payment apps and websites.

“We are addressing this through initial measures, such as suspending the in-app gambling access in mobile payment apps and websites. This way, we can help protect our citizens and preserve the integrity of our financial system,” he said.

Now in its fifth year, the Manila Tech Summit carries the theme, “Forging a New Global Order: Risks and Opportunities Redefined.” The summit, which runs from August 26 to 27, has gathered more than 1,300 delegates from over 300 organizations.

The event was organized by FinTech Alliance.PH, the country’s largest digital industry association representing more than 130 companies that account for over 95 percent of digital retail transactions.