Joseph Montes de Claro assumes leadership of Philippines' DICT amid internet reform push
Joseph Montes de Claro took over as secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, succeeding Henry Aguda, and pledged to lower internet costs and improve service.
Henry Aguda made his first public appearance since resigning when he handed over the Department of Information and Communications Technology to Joseph Montes de Claro during a flag-raising event. De Claro, previously the chief of the Social Security System, vowed to pursue cheaper and more reliable internet access for the Philippines, emphasizing that every peso spent on connectivity should be worthwhile. He highlighted the need to remove bureaucratic obstacles and simplify licensing procedures for telecom operators.
The leadership change follows controversy surrounding Aguda's proposal to ban the Discord platform. De Claro's appointment signals a continued focus on telecom reform under one outlet administration.
Why it matters
The new DICT chief's commitment to cheaper, better internet could affect millions of Filipino consumers and the country's digital economy.
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