Marcos vows stronger consumer protection against online fraud

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday vowed stronger protection for consumers against online fraud while calling for a more digitally skilled Filipino workforce.

Speaking at the opening of the Manila Tech Summit 2025 in Taguig City, Marcos outlined key measures, including the rollout of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act, the creation of an E-Commerce Bureau, and the continued implementation of the SIM Registration Act.

“These reforms are meant to protect consumers in the digital marketplace from fraud, scams, and unsafe transactions,” he said, noting the rising cases of online financial crimes.

READ: State of the Digital Nation: Building the foundation for the Philippines’ digital future

Marcos also underscored the importance of preparing Filipinos for opportunities in emerging industries through retraining and digital education.

“We are undertaking measures to re-skill and up-skill more Filipinos in emerging technology,” he added, pointing to government efforts to provide training for jobs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, e-commerce, and creative design.

The summit, which brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and technology innovators, served as a platform for the administration to present its two-pronged strategy: strengthening consumer trust in the digital economy while equipping the local workforce to compete globally. — Andrei Sabinay, INQUIRER.net trainee/mcm