THE British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) commends the signing of Republic Act (RA) 12254, or the e-Governance Act, which streamlines and institutionalizes the government’s digital transition.
Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson of the BCCP recognized the enactment as a reinforcement of current initiatives to eliminate red tape, while further boosting the country’s overall digital economy.
According to Nelson, this development aligns with broader government initiatives to eliminate red tape, with the BCCP acting as a champion of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), enabling direct reporting on related issues.
The chamber also noted that, ‘beyond strengthening governance, this law also positions the Philippines as a stronger investment destination in the region. By streamlining processes, cutting red tape, and embracing digital innovation, the e-Governance Act reinforces a modern, business-friendly environment-one that
enhances the country’s competitiveness, attracts higher levels of foreign direct investment, and drives long-term, sustainable economic growth.’
Nelson also welcomed the passage of other priority legislation such as the Konektadong Pinoy Act and Investors’ Lease Act: ‘We wish to commend the current administration, because [it is taking a really proactive approach to passing legislation. We have been a key advocate for this as] an ARTA Champion, and e-Governance will certainly assist that.’
For him, these developments can be linked to ‘further increasing the country’s digital trade that will encourage more investments in digital infrastructure, e-commerce, and other industries.’
The BCCP official pointed out that digital transformation reforms must be complemented by measures to strengthen and institutionalize cybersecurity by way of the passage of the Cybersecurity Act, which will enhance the country’s digital and cyber infrastructure, while ensuring a more resilient Philippine digital economy.
According to Nelson, these developments will also strengthen the expanding trade relations between the United Kingdom and the Philippines, which reached £3 billion in the four quarters ending the first three months of 2025.
He also highlighted the just-established UK-Philippine Joint Economic and Trade Committee or JETCO, and the Philippines’ interest to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership or the CPTPP.