'However, our achievement of these targets will be a function of our ability to offer the global market diverse, flexible and scalable skill sets across various technology platforms,' PSIA said.

House Bill 5769, according to the group, compromises this ability in several ways by discouraging a level playing field in which various technology providers can compete and establish an experience and revenue base in the domestic market.

Moreover, by discouraging collaboration with private sector software companies, PSIA said this restricts schools from providing training opportunities and limits students from acquiring skills sets required by the market.

PSIA urged proponents of the bill to consider its implications, saying, 'We should focus on common interests and not positions. Mandating a technology platform over all others is a position. Ensuring that government agencies and the Filipino people are able to optimize their technology choices in is an interest we all share.'