The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) welcomed the developments of Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) priority bills, of which 12 out of 48 have passed their third and final reading in the House of Representatives. BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson called on Congress to pass the Digital Payments Act, which is identified as another priority bill under LEDAC that will further assist in the country’s growing digital economy.
Nelson cited significant policy measures that were passed in 2025 such as the Konektadong Pinoy Act and E-Governance Act, both aimed at advancing the Philippines digital transformation agenda by empowering the telecommunications industry, narrowing the digital divide, and institutionalizing e-governance to provide efficient delivery of government services.
Nelson said, “We have seen digital payments grow strongly. I think back in 2013 it was barely at 1 percent. What we need to do is identify how LGUs can use it, and also other government departments. The more we can use digital payments, the less direct contact we have. This will help speed up the process. It will also be part of what we call cutting red tape and again reinforces the fact that we are an ARTA champion and we work closely with Secretary Perez in this matter.”
As filed in the Senate, the Digital Payments Act aims to ensure that LGUs will have access to digital payment solutions, with consideration to small and micro enterprises, to assist in facilitating the transition to digital transactions. It also aimed to grant incentives for businesses that provide digital payment services. Nelson added, “I would also like to stress legislation. It is very important we move forward with things like the Cybersecurity Act and see digital payments move forward. These are important signals to investors.”
The British Chamber welcomed the prioritization of measures relating to cybersecurity and digitalization and looks forward to its passage under the 20th Congress. It also added that the Philippine ASEAN Chairship, with one of its five-point economic agenda being digital transformation, would pose significant growth and market opportunities that will spotlight the country as an investment destination in the region.