Transforming cities through digital inclusion
Guillermo “Bill” Luz has long been a catalyst for urban transformation, advocating for more intelligent and resilient cities where connectivity is a fundamental right, not a privilege.
As Chairman of Liveable Cities Philippines and Chief Resilience Officer of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, Luz has championed digital access as a core component of sustainable urban development.
His leadership and advocacy earned him Globe’s Connectivity Trailblazer Award, which recognizes individuals who push the boundaries of connectivity to bridge the digital divide and expand equitable internet access. This award is part of the company’s inaugural Connectivity Champions program, which honors individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing digital inclusion.
Luz was distinguished for his unwavering dedication to embedding technology in urban planning, ensuring digital-enabled government services, and strengthening connectivity in disaster-prone areas to facilitate emergency response.
A former co-chairman of the National Competitiveness Council (2011-2018), Luz played an important role in forging partnerships between government agencies and the private sector to accelerate digital infrastructure development. His leadership in the Liveable Cities Program has encouraged cities to embrace technologies that improve service delivery, promote economic growth, and build resilient communities.
For Luz, connectivity must be as accessible and essential as electricity and water.
“Just in the same way that when you walk into a building or a home and occupy it, you can turn on your power and turn on your water, it would be great if we could turn on connectivity the same way. Just open an account, no additional wiring, no additional gadgets, we can connect straight to WiFi and to the internet,” he said.
Luz has seen firsthand how digital infrastructure transforms cities and empowers communities. He underscores how integrating technology into services can improve efficiency and accessibility.
“Online platforms make it easier to access government services, from processing permits to paying bills, saving time, and reducing bureaucracy. In healthcare, telemedicine and digital health records improve access to medical services and streamline patient care,” said Luz.
Education also stands to gain significantly from digital adoption.
“E-learning platforms expand opportunities for students. Public safety is enhanced through smart surveillance and emergency response systems that react faster and more effectively. Even utilities like water and electricity become more reliable with intelligent grids that monitor usage and prevent outages,” Luz shared.
A Call for Collective Action
Luz believes that bridging the digital divide requires true collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and civil society.
“One of the key successes was fostering genuine collaboration and open dialogue between government agencies and private sector players. By bringing everyone to the table early, we were able to align on common goals and address challenges together,” he notes.
He warned that failing to act today would widen the digital divide.
“Connectivity is going to shape our future in ways we can’t fully imagine yet. It’s already changing how we work, learn, shop, and interact. As technology keeps evolving, more jobs, services, and even everyday activities will depend on reliable internet access. If we don’t prepare for that now, we risk widening the gap between those who have access and those who don’t. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in digital infrastructure today and ensure that people have the skills to use it,” he concludes.
Through the Connectivity Trailblazer Award, Globe reaffirms its commitment to fostering digital inclusion and supporting leaders like Luz who are paving the way for a more connected and empowered nation.
To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
