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Advocates Philippines
Henry Rhoel Aguda Named New DICT Secretary: What You Need To Know
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Henry Rhoel R. Aguda as the new secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), replacing Ivan John Uy, who resigned earlier this month.
Aguda isn’t new to the digital and tech space. In fact, he brings a wealth of experience from the banking, telecommunications, and technology sectors. Before stepping into his new role, he was the president and CEO of UnionDigital Bank, the digital arm of UnionBank. He also played a key role in the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) as the Digital Infrastructure Lead, a group created by President Marcos to foster public-private collaborations in tech innovation.
A Deep Tech and Banking Background
Aguda’s resume is stacked. He has worn many hats in both the private and public sectors:
• Banking & Finance – He was the board chairman of City Savings Bank and UBX Philippines and held leadership positions at UnionBank, including as a senior executive vice president.
• Technology & Telecommunications – He has served as chief technology officer for Globe Telecom, Digitel, and GSIS, and also managed Nextel’s information operations.
• Software & Digital Platforms – Aguda has been involved in financial technology and digital transformation, working with BancNet, Insular Health Care, and Metaverse Ventures.
With expertise in digital banking, financial crime prevention, and tech infrastructure, Aguda seems like a fitting choice to lead DICT, which plays a crucial role in improving the country’s digital landscape.
Top-Tier Education & Training
Aguda’s academic credentials are just as impressive. He earned both his Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of the Philippines, graduating cum laude in both. He also pursued further studies at Harvard Business School, Wharton, and the University of Asia and the Pacific.
What’s Next for DICT Under Aguda?
With Aguda at the helm, all eyes are on how he will steer the DICT’s digital transformation initiatives, including internet connectivity, cybersecurity, and e-governance. His background in both public and private sectors could be a game-changer in bridging technological gaps and making digital services more efficient for Filipinos.
Will he bring fresh innovations? How will his banking and tech expertise shape DICT’s direction? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—Aguda’s appointment signals a strong push for digital modernization in the country.
Aguda isn’t new to the digital and tech space. In fact, he brings a wealth of experience from the banking, telecommunications, and technology sectors. Before stepping into his new role, he was the president and CEO of UnionDigital Bank, the digital arm of UnionBank. He also played a key role in the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) as the Digital Infrastructure Lead, a group created by President Marcos to foster public-private collaborations in tech innovation.
A Deep Tech and Banking Background
Aguda’s resume is stacked. He has worn many hats in both the private and public sectors:
• Banking & Finance – He was the board chairman of City Savings Bank and UBX Philippines and held leadership positions at UnionBank, including as a senior executive vice president.
• Technology & Telecommunications – He has served as chief technology officer for Globe Telecom, Digitel, and GSIS, and also managed Nextel’s information operations.
• Software & Digital Platforms – Aguda has been involved in financial technology and digital transformation, working with BancNet, Insular Health Care, and Metaverse Ventures.
With expertise in digital banking, financial crime prevention, and tech infrastructure, Aguda seems like a fitting choice to lead DICT, which plays a crucial role in improving the country’s digital landscape.
Top-Tier Education & Training
Aguda’s academic credentials are just as impressive. He earned both his Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of the Philippines, graduating cum laude in both. He also pursued further studies at Harvard Business School, Wharton, and the University of Asia and the Pacific.
What’s Next for DICT Under Aguda?
With Aguda at the helm, all eyes are on how he will steer the DICT’s digital transformation initiatives, including internet connectivity, cybersecurity, and e-governance. His background in both public and private sectors could be a game-changer in bridging technological gaps and making digital services more efficient for Filipinos.
Will he bring fresh innovations? How will his banking and tech expertise shape DICT’s direction? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—Aguda’s appointment signals a strong push for digital modernization in the country.
Mar 21, 2025
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