The Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship is urging the national governments and the local government units (LGUs) to invest on digital technologies, saying such move would ensure economic recovery and environmental sustainability of the country.

Engr. Felix Vitangcol, convenor of the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship, explained that the adverse effects of climate change is now a big challenge facing all counties, the proof is the extreme weather events that include stronger typhoons.

“We only have to look at how the breakdown of power and telecommunication services hampered critical rescue and rehabilitation efforts in the immediate aftermath of Typhoon Odette in December. If we fail to optimize digital technologies, we will only widen social divides and expose the most vulnerable among us to economic and environmental risks," said Vitangcol.

The Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship advocacy group championing environmental stewardship

Vitangcol explained digital technologies can enable industries to become greener by being efficient in waste and pollution management. This also translates to efficiency and competitiveness because of lower operating costs, allowing for growth, expansion and more jobs.

He cited the case of Globe Telecom's ongoing shift to renewable energy to power their key facilities.

“The private sector has proven to be an instrumental partner to the government in this regard. It has visibly shifted capital funds toward tangible, measurable initiatives to this end. Through environmental, social and governance (ESG)-based interventions, they have shown their capability to expand people’s access to education, proper and well-informed health-care, and immediate financial support," said Vitangcol.

"Sustainability values initiatives are now integrated into business cultures especially in big enterprises. This is a sign that industry captains are putting their money where their mouth is, by committing substantial resources to long-term environmental concerns," he added.

As such, he said the government must match the commitment of the private sector to ensure that no one is left behind.

“Access to the best technology neither defines sustainability nor guarantees economic prosperity,” Vitangcol said. “As many Filipinos as possible should enjoy access to technology and develop the know-how to navigate it. These are tools for achieving a better life. Beyond obtaining the latest innovations, people should be able to use them to serve their own needs," Vitangcol said.

“For individuals, communities, and organizations alike, platforms and applications serve a purpose that furthers their objectives and improves their well-being. We now have a valuable tool to help us prepare for physical, social, and economic shocks when disasters strike. Technology does not have to come at the expense of turning our back on the environment; on the contrary, it helps us become more conscientious stewards of the environment, for the benefit of all," he added.