Google recently celebrated its fifth anniversary in the Philippines. Along with this monumental event was a promise of a stronger commitment to contribute to the country’s digital, economic, and cultural growth.
Ken Lingan, Google Philippines Country Manager
[su_quote cite=”Ken Lingan, Google Philippines Country Manager. “]Every Filipino needs to be fully equipped in their role as drivers of our country’s growth. As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, we look at the collaborations we can make with different sectors, institutions, and all Filipinos so we can maximize the internet to help us build an even greater Philippines. Making the internet optimal for use is a persistent challenge but together, we can harness its power to create opportunities and unlock our country’s full potential. [/su_quote]
Businesses Thriving Online
Google is increasing its efforts to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in making themselves more visible online, encouraging them to be a part of the growing e-commerce industry in the country.
Based on a TEMASEK report in 2016, the Philippine e-commerce industry is projected to grow from 5 billion to 9.5 billion USD in the year 2025, add to that, an 18% annual growth in the number of people who avail of goods and services through the web.
[su_quote]We are reaching out more to both public and private sectors to find out how our tools and programs can help them achieve their goals. By working more closely with the government and businesses, we believe we will be able to push the country further to become a powerhouse economy.[/su_quote]
Google is also looking forward to work with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) so that customers can easily find the products or services that they’re looking for through Google My Business, a free tool that empowers entrepreneurs to share relevant information such as location, business hours and contact information.
Celebrating Filipinos’ best
This year, Google is set to debut a campaign that highlights Philippine culture and tourism. Using the Local Guides online tool, Filipinos will be able to share knowledge and contribute to emphasizing the country’s best. Google Maps users can also share reviews of places they’ve been to, including dining destinations, tourist attractions, hotels, shops, and other places.
Later this year, a Local Guide Summit will also be held that involves local communities, and also with a purpose of recognizing top contributors.
Google Doodles, which involve occasional changes to the search homepage will also continue for celebrating holidays and notable national historic events.
Towards a better, safer internet
Enabling Filipinos to make the most out of the Internet remains a top priority for Google. Along with the Datally and Files Go apps in 2017, the brand has announced that YouTube Go, an app that allows users to carefully manage data when watching videos, and save them for offline use, is now on its beta stage here in the Philippines.
With the goal of improving the Internet environment, Google is also closely working with YouTube creators and other social influencers to promote and encourage productive interactions online. Named #LovePhilippines, this new campaign takes off from 2016, to highlight unique things about the country, from food, places, culture and other fun facts.
[su_quote]Through the initiatives we outlined this year, Google is committed to giving Filipinos a better experience on the internet. With new tools and opportunities in store, we are optimistic that we will fuel breakthroughs that will lead to the country’s success.[/su_quote]
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
