Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on Friday highlighted the critical role of technology, innovation, and good governance in establishing climate-resilient communities and securing food sustainability.
Speaking at the 10th ClickConEx: Convergence of Luzon ICT Champions and Exhibitions Leadership Dialogue held in Naga City, Pangilinan addressed a diverse group of information and communications technology (ICT) leaders, digital innovators, local executives, educators, investors, and development partners.
The conference focused on leveraging digital transformation to counter the rising threats of climate change and food scarcity.
The leadership forum also featured prominent regional and national figures, including former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Senator Bam Aquino, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, alongside delegates from various Luzon-based ICT councils and tech startups.
During the dialogue, Pangilinan explained that community survival and progress heavily rely on how effectively local leaders apply data, science, and technology to build inclusive and highly responsive governance frameworks.
He noted that digital solutions are already directly benefiting marginalized sectors, giving farmers and fisherfolk access to automated early warning systems, live weather tracking, and direct market data through mobile technology.
While acknowledging that the country’s agricultural sector is undergoing a steady digital shift, Pangilinan stressed the urgent need to bridge the digital divide by bringing these tools directly to underserved rural areas.
He advocated for expanding countryside internet access, upgrading agricultural training programs, deploying centralized food security data systems, and fostering closer cooperation between local government units, state agencies, universities, and private enterprises.
“Food security is not the responsibility of a single sector alone—it is a shared responsibility of the entire nation,” Pangilinan said.
The senator concluded by stating that maximizing ICT integration will pave the way for a nation better prepared for environmental disasters, backed by a fortified agricultural economy and steady food access for citizens.
He also expressed gratitude to the local leadership of Naga City for spearheading initiatives aimed at building a smarter, more sustainable future.