Technological breakthroughs, such as advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, internet of things, 3D printing, blockchain, and big data analytics, have ushered in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIRe). These technologies are expected to alter the patterns of production, consumption, and employment, creating both opportunities and risks.

What are the implications of FIRe for Philippine development policy and strategy? How should the country re-position its economic and labor regulatory environment in the face of this revolution and its implications? What steps must be undertaken to develop the skills and competencies required for the future labor market? How can the ecosystem for science, technology, and innovation be strengthened and be made more effective? A systematic analysis of these questions is critical to ensure that the country’s economic take-off is sustained in the long run and leads to even faster and more inclusive growth.    
 
This year’s Annual Public Policy Conference (APPC) will tackle these issues and the opportunities facing the Philippines as it embraces the FIRe. It will bring together experts, academics, policymakers, and private sector and civil society representatives in a multidisciplinary conversation on how the Philippines can harness the opportunities and manage the risks emerging from this fourth major industrial era.