In a meeting with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos on Thursday, April 11, tech giant Google pledged its support to digitally bolster micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines, alongside promoting responsible digital technology usage among children and their parents.
According to Karan Bhatia, Google’s Global Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy, Google aims to equip local businesses within the country with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of establishing a robust online presence.
Bhatia also claimed that they’ve partnered up with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as a means to arm MSMEs with essential skills crucial for success in an increasingly digital economy.
This initiative builds upon Google’s previous efforts in the Philippines, including the distribution of over 40,000 Google Career Certificates (GCC) scholarships meant to gear up Filipino youths, jobseekers, entrepreneurs, and civil servants with in-demand skills such as project management, cybersecurity, IT support, data analytics, UX design, and digital marketing.
Moreover, the tech giant has additionally rolled out GCC programs in over 1,300 DTI Negosyo Centers across 16 regions nationwide, providing accessible training opportunities for aspiring digital professionals.
Furthermore, Google has also vowed to train over 100,000 children and their parents on safe and responsible digital practices, eyeing to promote responsible digital technology usage among Filipinos.
“Kids are often online for a long period of time, and we need to make sure that they know how to use the technology. So, we have thus far engaged in training for 100,000 Filipino kids and are going to continue to grow that as well,” Bhatia asserted.
He further stressed how excited Google is to expand its business footprint within the Philippines, noting the existing presence of around 50,000 employees in the country.
Since its establishment in 2013, Google Philippines has played a crucial role in supporting the global operations of the tech giant by providing essential customer and operational support services locally. | Kian Kirby F. Florano
Photo: Presidential Communication Office