President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday asserted that digital-ready and future-oriented Filipino citizens push the vision of Bagong Pilipinas—one that can keep pace with the rest of the world.

In the latest episode of the BBMVLOG digitalization 2025, the President recognized the Filipinos’ openness to adopting new technologies and embracing globalization.

“Ang Bagong Pilipino ay bukas ang isip sa mga makabagong teknolohiya,” President Marcos said. “Kakambal ng Bagong Pilipinas ang digitalisasyon. Ito ang patuloy nating isinusulong para makasabay tayo sa buong mundo.”

The President noted that while the pandemic initially triggered the shift to online systems, the resilience and adaptability of the Filipinos gave digitalization long-term traction.

The President emphasized that many citizens, having experienced the speed and convenience of digital tools, are now more inclined to move forward with innovation.

“Kailangan lang natin bigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga bago,” the President said.

President Marcos highlighted key government efforts to accelerate digital transformation across sectors. These include the rollout of the National Fiber Backbone across six regions, now benefitting more than 17 million Filipinos.

He also cited the deployment of satellite internet to Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), including schools that previously had no access.

Additionally, the expansion of free Wi-Fi in public parks, terminals, and transport hubs is helping promote inclusive connectivity and bridge the digital divide.

President Marcos recognized the continued success of the eGov PH Super App, which streamlines government transactions and recently enabled the digital renewal of driver’s licenses in partnership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

The app also anchors newly launched eGov Service Hubs established in partnership with local government units.

“Wala nang pila. Wala nang fixer. Wala nang korapsyon,” the President said.

President Marcos acknowledged the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public life, from providing instant information to assisting in the writing of speeches. However, the President warned against the misuse of digital tools in scams, disinformation, and online gambling.

“Ang teknolohiya ay nandito upang padaliin ang ating buhay,” the President said. “At higit sa lahat, para magbuklod ng pamilyang Pilipino.” | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, July 20, for a three-day official visit focused on strengthening the Philippines’ strategic partnership with the United States, particularly in the areas of economic and security cooperation.

The President’s aircraft landed at Joint Base Andrews at 2:48 p.m. local time, where he was welcomed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez and U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson.

President Marcos is the first Southeast Asian leader to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump since the start of the latter’s second term in January.

In his statement prior to his departure from Manila, President Marcos highlighted the importance of the visit in reaffirming the enduring alliance with the United States to reinforce defense and security cooperation, foster greater trade and economic cooperation, and ensure peace and stability in the region.

President Marcos’ visit signals a shared intent to expand Philippine-U.S. partnership, which is built on decades of cooperation and anchored in mutual respect, prosperity, and regional stability. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed for Washington, D.C., on Sunday for a three-day official visit aimed at reaffirming the Philippines’ enduring alliance with the United States and advancing key national interests.

Speaking at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City prior to his departure, President Marcos said the official visit to the United States is important because priority items for discussion include enhancing trade and economic cooperation, particularly in light of the recently imposed 20-percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports.

“My visit to Washington, D.C., and most importantly, my meeting with President Trump, is essential to continuing to advance our national interests and strengthening our alliance,” President Marcos said.

“We will reaffirm our commitment to fostering our long-standing alliances as an instrument of peace and a catalyst of development in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world,” the President said.

The President said the visit builds on the active exchanges that the country has had since US President Donald Trump assumed office in January this year.

President Marcos said his top priority includes enhancing trade and economic cooperation, particularly in light of the recently imposed 20-percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports.

“I intend to convey to President Trump and his Cabinet officials that the Philippines is ready to negotiate a bilateral trade deal that will ensure strong, mutually beneficial, and future-oriented collaborations that only the United States and the Philippines will be able to take advantage of,” the President said.

“We will see how much progress we can make when it comes to the negotiations with the United States, concerning the changes that we would like to institute, so as to be able to alleviate the effects of a very severe tariff schedule,” the President said.

During the visit, President Marcos is scheduled to meet with various business leaders to explore business opportunities that will help further stimulate the country’s economic growth.

President Marcos’ visit comes at the formal invitation of President Trump, making him the first head of state from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to be hosted by the U.S. leader since Trump assumed office in January this year. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is personally overseeing the crafting of his speech and the preparation for the upcoming 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), reflecting his strong drive to improve the socio-economic conditions of Filipinos, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said on Sunday.

In an interview on the sidelines of the President’s departure ceremony for his official visit to Washington, D.C., Bersamin emphasized that President Marcos is deeply involved in crafting the report for the SONA, which he considers a vital opportunity to communicate the administration’s efforts and plans directly to the Filipino people.

“The President has been very involved personally in the preparation of the SONA because that is the report to the people,” Bersamin told reporters at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

“He always gives that the highest importance, and I think he has already collected the material for his SONA,” the Executive Secretary added.

Bersamin said the President is eager to report to the public the programs and projects thoughtfully designed to uplift the lives of the Filipino people through the SONA scheduled on July 28.

““Alam niyo si Presidente, masyadong malakas ang focus niya sa mga ganitong bagay because he really loves to communicate to the people the work that he has been doing, that the Cabinet has been doing, that the entire government has been doing,” Bersamin said.

Bersamin noted that President Marcos is still carefully reviewing his report to ensure that the right and most relevant information is clearly and accurately communicated to the Filipino people.

Asked whether the President’s trip to the United States will be included in his report, Bersamin said, “If there is anything worth reporting, we can expect it.”

President Marcos’ visit to Washington, D.C. focuses on deepening the long-standing partnership between the Philippines and the US in key areas such as defense and trade, particularly addressing the 20 percent tariff on Philippine exports. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday expressed full support for Filipino boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, who made a celebrated return to the ring and earned a majority draw against reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.

The boxing match between Pacquiao and Barrios was hailed as a battle that defied age, exceeded expectations, and challenged the odds.

Before departing for his official visit to the United States, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. took to social media to rally the nation behind the People’s Champ, calling the match “a moment to witness the heart of a champion and the strength of a nation.”

“The Philippines holds its breath as we come together once more, UNITED behind the People’s Champ,” the President added in his post.

Fighting at age 46, Pacquiao went toe-to-toe with 30-year-old Barrios—16 years his junior—at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. After 12 hard-fought rounds, the bout ended in a majority draw, with one judge scoring it 115–113 for Barrios and two scoring it even at 114–114, allowing the American to retain his WBC welterweight title.

Despite the long layoff and the significant age gap, Pacquiao stunned many with his signature speed, footwork, and grit—hallmarks of a storied career that continues to inspire.

Barrios acknowledged Pacquiao’s enduring prowess: “I thought I pulled it out. But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an honor to share the ring with him,” he said, adding, “His stamina at 46 caught me off guard.”

Pacquiao last fought professionally in August 2021 before announcing his retirement to focus on public service. He served as a senator from 2016 to 2022. He ran and lost in his presidential bid in the 2022 polls, and he lost again in the May 2025 senatorial elections.

Pacquiao’s comeback nearly four years later was welcomed with excitement and deep national pride.

President Marcos echoed the admiration of a nation that continues to stand firmly behind the People’s Champ:

“Laban, Manny! Dalangin ng bawat Pilipino ang iyong tagumpay,” the President said.

The Marcos administration sees Pacquiao’s return not merely as a sporting milestone, but as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and unity that define the Filipino spirit—core to the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

As Pacman stepped into the ring once more, Filipinos around the world stood united—celebrating his legacy, cheering his courage, and honoring one of the greatest athletes the world has ever known. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday rallied Filipinos to embrace digital transformation as a vital tool for nation-building, calling it a cornerstone of his administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision.

President Marcos also urged the public to be responsible in using technology to strengthen institutions, improve government services, and foster stronger Filipino families.

In the latest episode of the BBM VLOG on digitalization 2025, President Marcos stressed that digitalization is a cornerstone of the Bagong Pilipinas vision, which drives reforms across key sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, and trade.

“Digitalisasyon sa mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan. Digitalisasyon sa edukasyon, sa kalusugan, sa agrikultura at marami pang iba,” President Marcos said, highlighting the broad reach and potential of digital tools in improving government services.

The Chief Executive reiterated that while technology can significantly ease processes, curb corruption, and expand access to quality services, it must be used with discernment and integrity.

“Ang teknolohiya ay nandito upang padaliin ang ating buhay. Para ilihis ang pamahalaan sa korapsyon. Para maging mabilis ang proseso. Para mapaganda ang edukasyon, ang healthcare at ang kalakalan. Higit sa lahat para magtaguyod at magbuklod ng pamilyang Pilipino. Hindi para sirain ito,” President Marcos said.

The President encouraged all Filipinos—both young and old, in urban and rural communities—to stay informed and involved in the country’s digital transformation, especially as the government ramps up its digital infrastructure and services under eGov PH and other modernization initiatives.

President Marcos underscored the call for a digitally empowered citizenry that actively contributes to building a stronger and more inclusive nation. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday urged Filipinos to harness artificial intelligence (AI) as a learning tool, emphasizing that regular use improves its ability to deliver helpful responses.

“Ang AI, natututo. Mas lalo mong gagamitin, mas lalong gagaling ang sagot sayo. Kaya’t gamitin ninyo nang gamitin, para iyong AI masanay sa inyo. Pagkatagal nang panahon makikita ninyo, iyong sagot ng AI sa mga tanong niyo ay paganda nang paganda,” President Marcos said in his latest video blog, posted on Sunday.

The Chief Executive enumerated some practical uses of AI that Filipinos can start with, such as asking for directions, inquiring about activities at a particular place, and seeking assistance with writing speeches.

In the vlog, an AI-generated segment showcasing Filipino creativity featured the President pausing his vlog in a Malacañang office, rising from his seat, donning a black leather jacket, and dramatically spinning with arms outstretched. The office walls then collapsed, revealing a stage set for what appeared to be a rock concert.

Amid the productive uses of AI, President Marcos lamented that some people are also using the technology nefariously and warned against such misuse.

“Sa kabila ng magagandang development na ito, nakakalungkot na ginagamit din ito ng masasamang-loob sa mga scams, sa mga fake news, sa pagpapalaganap ng maling impormasyon. At marami sa atin ang nabibiktima dito,” the President said.

Encouraging the use of AI has been part of the Marcos administration’s push for digitalization, alongside enhancing internet connectivity across the archipelago and offering government services online via smart apps.

Last May, the government unveiled “TunAI,” an AI-powered app embedded within a social media platform that can detect fake news, verify facts, and direct users to legitimate sources.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology has announced the development and training of the country’s own AI engine, designed to assist Filipinos in activities such as gathering information and reporting crimes, and capable of responding in dialects familiar to users. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday expressed the Philippines’ readiness to engage in discussions toward a bilateral trade agreement with the United States, emphasizing the goal of fostering a strong, balanced, and mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations.

President Marcos departed for the United States on Sunday morning for an official visit scheduled to run until July 22.

“My top priority for this visit is to push for greater economic engagement, particularly through trade and investment between the Philippines and the United States,” President Marcos said in his departure statement at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

“I intend to convey to President Trump and his Cabinet officials that the Philippines is ready to negotiate a bilateral trade deal that will ensure strong, mutually beneficial, and future-oriented collaborations that only the United States and the Philippines will be able to take advantage of.”

As with his previous foreign visits, the President said he looks forward to meeting with U.S. business leaders to explore opportunities that will further strengthen the Philippine economy.

In a Palace press briefing last Friday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano said President Marcos and U.S. President Donald Trump are expected to hold substantive discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of security and economic development.

On top of the agenda is the proposed 20 percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports, which the Marcos administration aims to address through constructive and mutually beneficial dialogue with the Trump administration.

The Philippines, Solano said, hopes to forge a bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. or a deal on reciprocal trade that is mutually acceptable and beneficial for both countries.

Aside from trade and investment, Solano said the leaders will discuss ways to enhance defense cooperation and maritime security, as well as efforts to maintain regional stability amid evolving geopolitical challenges.

President Marcos is scheduled to meet with President Trump on July 22 at the White House.

President Marcos is the first head of state from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc to meet with President Trump since his return to office in January 2025, underscoring the continued strength of Philippines-U.S. relations. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is working hard to improve the lives of Filipinos by leading and closely overseeing key government initiatives, from infrastructure and transportation to energy, housing, and digital services.

President Marcos’ hands-on approach ensures that these efforts do not merely symbolize improvement but translate into tangible improvements for communities across the country.

On July 14, President Marcos led the groundbreaking ceremony of the new passenger terminal building at the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan, Malay, Aklan, marking a major milestone in the government’s efforts to modernize the country’s air transport infrastructure and spur tourism-led regional development.

Following a visit to the Caticlan airport, President Marcos flew over the Malampaya oil and gas platform aboard a helicopter, conducting an aerial inspection of the drilling operations off the coast of Palawan. Malampaya Phase 4 (MP4) involves drilling three new deep-water wells to deliver a new gas supply by 2026.

On July 16, President Marcos led the launching of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) 50 percent discount for senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) using LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3. The hefty discount took effect on the same day.

The President led the first batch of senior citizens on the inaugural trip of the so-called Dalian trains at the Santolan-Annapolis MRT station, expressing satisfaction that the Dalian trains had finally been put into service.

From the inaugural trip, President Marcos proceeded to inspect the portion of the Metro Manila Subway project at the Camp Aguinaldo Station. While the entire subway would span from Valenzuela City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City, the President hoped the Valenzuela to Camp Aguinaldo segment could be completed by 2028.

Meanwhile, in line with President Marcos’ mass housing program, Malacañang said around 5,000 informal settlers are slated to own lots through the 34 revived on-site housing projects across key areas in Luzon and Visayas.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) approved the proposal of the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) to revive the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) in 34 sites initially in Luzon and the Visayas.

On July 18, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. launched the Bagong Pilipinas eGovPH Serbisyo Hub and the eGovPH Super App, key components of his administration’s push for digital transformation in public service.

Unveiled in Pinaglabanan, San Juan, the Bagong Pilipinas eGovPH Serbisyo Hub (BPESH) serves as a one-stop shop that integrates the services of around 70 government agencies, streamlining the delivery of essential public assistance and making government transactions more accessible, efficient, and citizen-friendly. | PND

Several people were using their mobile phones to access the Bagong Pilipinas eGovPH Super App at various service counters inside the eGovPH Serbisyo Hub at the Makabagong San Juan National Government Center in Pinaglabanan St., San Juan on Friday.

Most of them were requesting documents and services from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH).

“Kumuha po ako ng birth certificate ng anak ko. Nahirapan ako kumuha nito kasi malayo. Pero dito, madali na lang,” said Rachel Balbastro, a housewife and mother of four.

Balbastro praised President Marcos for introducing a service that simplified the process of getting documents from the government.

“Magaling po naisip nya po na gumawa ng ganitong sistema. Di ka na lalayo, madali ang proseso. Di ka na pipila ng Step 1, Step 2, Step 3,” Balbastro said.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa ating mahal na Presidente na napadali po ang pagkuha ng birth certificates. Maraming salamat po, Presidente Marcos,” Balbastro continued.

For her part, Socorro Quinajon, 68, a former assistant professor, said the eGovPH Serbisyo Hub in San Juan City is very convenient for her.

“Somebody referred me here na madaling kumuha ng CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record). Kailangan ko po ito para sa claims,” said Quinajon.

Quinajon requested the document from the center’s PSA counter.

“Ok po ito, ang bilis! At saka napaka-accommodating ng mga nagtratrabaho dito. Malaking bagay ito, malaking tulong sa tao. Di ka na kailangan pumunta sa main PSA office sa Quezon City,” she said.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa Presidente, malaking bagay ito, very convenient po,” Quinajon also said.

For his part, Rogelio Soledad, 64, a retired labor worker from San Juan, said he went to the hub to apply for financial assistance from the DSWD.

“Maraming salamat po Presidente Marcos. Malaking tulong po ito,” he said.

Ordinary folk like them showed appreciation to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for making government services more accessible by launching the Bagong Pilipinas eGovPH Super App and eGovPH Serbisyo Hub in San Juan City on Friday.

“Walang pila. Walang fixer. Walang korapsyon. Iyan ang makukuha natin dahil sa eGov app at one-stop shop na ating binuksan ngayon,” President Marcos said during the launch.

President Marcos said through the Bagong Pilipinas eGovPH Super App and the eGovPH Serbisyo Hub, government transactions have become faster, more convenient, and corruption-free. | PND