Anna Mae Lamentillo served as Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Foreign Relations, managing Foreign Assisted Projects and Public Private Partnerships. She was dedicated to bridging the digital divide in the Philippines. Her leadership was instrumental in fostering international collaborations and introducing cutting-edge technologies previously unavailable in our country, such as low orbit satellites, notably facilitating the activation of Starlink.

The urgency of her efforts was underscored by the fact that 65% of our nation remained offline, with a majority of those lacking access being marginalized groups: women, children, indigenous people, and individuals with disabilities. Anna Mae Lamentillo recognized this digital disparity as a significant barrier to progress and social inclusion.

The digital divide isn't merely about access to technology; it's about equal access to opportunities, resources, and essential services that are increasingly dependent on digital platforms. Anna Mae understands that by empowering these groups through digital inclusion, the Philippines can unlock a wealth of potential, driving inclusive economic growth and societal development.

Her advocacy extended beyond connectivity to encompass digital literacy and empowerment, crucial for inclusive economic growth and societal advancement. Anna Mae envisioned a future where all Filipinos, regardless of background, had equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age. Her unwavering commitment drove policies that promoted digital inclusion, ensuring that every citizen could contribute to and benefit from our increasingly interconnected world.

Anna Mae Lamentillo's advocacy for digital equity isn't just about connecting people to the internet; it's about building a more equitable and prosperous society where everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or ability, has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age. Through her leadership and unwavering commitment, Anna Mae continues to pave the way towards a future where digital inclusion is a reality for all.

Continuing her work in this critical space, Anna Mae now serves as the founder and Chief Future Officer of Build Initiative. Through this organization, she and her team are developing an innovative app that utilizes AI for two primary purposes: preserving languages nearing extinction and making AI accessible to individuals who are unable to use it because they do not speak English or any of the major languages AI is traditionally trained on.