Startup Originals Team
India’s Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT solutions, has formed a landmark alliance with Now Corporation’s telecom arm, Now Telecom, to strengthen the Philippines’ digital infrastructure, promote financial inclusion, and build a “clean network” resilient against growing cyber threats. This collaboration marks a major step toward enhancing national digital sovereignty-empowering Filipinos and protecting the country’s critical data from external risks.
Building the Sovereign Data Cloud: Keeping Philippine Data Safe
Central to the partnership is the deployment of TCS’s SovereignSecure Cloud™ platform. This system is designed to ensure local control over sensitive data, support the development of AI infrastructure, and maintain operational continuity-even during crises. By localizing data and reducing dependency on foreign technologies, the Sovereign Data Cloud will help the Philippines safeguard its most important digital assets and respond quickly to emerging cyber challenges.
Advancing Cybersecurity and Trusted Networks:
TCS will implement its Cyber Defense Suite to bolster the country’s defenses. This includes cybersecurity intelligence, resilience planning, vendor risk management, and identity security measures. The partnership is coordinated as part of the Trusted Network Alliance under the Trusted Network Initiative, a global effort promoting secure telecom and digital systems. Robust protocols will be developed to guard against sophisticated cyber threats and ensure smooth, secure communication across government and private sectors.
Promoting Financial Inclusion Through Digital Innovation:
The alliance aims to widen access to formal financial services using advanced citizen-centric platforms. Projects will be launched in digital banking, healthcare, and other essential services, with the goal of bringing more Filipinos into the financial mainstream. By creating digital pathways for banking and payments, the initiative strives to address barriers faced by underserved communities, fostering greater economic participation and social empowerment.
Enhancing Operational Interoperability and National Resilience:
TCS and Now Telecom will work together to enable cross-agency interoperability-helping government bodies collaborate more efficiently during emergencies and complex scenarios. The collaboration will also focus on building robust infrastructure capable of withstanding evolving cyber risks, ensuring the Philippines retains sovereign control over its critical digital systems during disruptions or crises.
Leadership Voices: Commitment to Innovation and Security
Mel Velarde, Chairman of the NOW Group, called the partnership “a significant step towards enhancing our national digital sovereignty and reducing reliance on foreign technologies.” Shiju Varghese, Country Head of TCS Philippines, emphasized TCS’s commitment to helping the nation “build a resilient and secure digital ecosystem,” aligning with the country’s Department of Information and Communications Technology guidelines.
Conclusion: Paving the Way for a Digital-First Economy
By joining forces, TCS and Now Telecom are setting new benchmarks for digital innovation, security, and financial inclusion in the Philippines. The partnership not only supports the country’s ambition for a future-ready digital economy but also sets an example for international cooperation in the era of data-driven transformation. With resilient infrastructure and advanced technology, the Philippines is better positioned to protect its citizens, foster growth, and excel in today’s digital world.
