PLDT and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), are joining forces with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in an ambitious effort to enhance digital literacy among Filipinos, with a particular focus on underserved communities. The initiative, dubbed “Tech for Good, Tech for All,” aims to equip more citizens with essential digital skills, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in an increasingly connected world.

“Through this program, we are working with the DICT to build a digitally empowered nation, allowing more Filipinos to thrive in a digital economy,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement Team at PLDT and Smart. This collaborative effort seeks to bridge the digital divide and foster greater inclusion as the Philippines advances towards a more connected future.

In an exciting start to this initiative, PLDT and Smart organized a Basic Digital Literacy session during the ‘Training of Trainers’ for key personnel from the ICT Literacy and Competency Development Bureau (ILCDB) and DICT Center managers. This session focused on practical skills essential for the digital age, such as smartphone usage, social media navigation, and online selling—tailored specifically for seniors and those new to technology. Yes, even Grandma can learn to sell her craft items online!

These trainers — tasked with overseeing the country’s Tech4ED-DTCs (Technology for Education, Employment, Entrepreneurs, and Economic Development – Digital Transformation Centers) — are key figures in community-based digital hubs providing critical access to e-government services and educational resources. “At the DICT, we are committed to ensuring every Filipino, regardless of location, has the tools and skills to engage in today’s digital landscape,” stated Jimmicio S. Daoaten, Director IV of ILCDB of DICT. By localizing training opportunities, the project empowers individuals to actively participate in the country’s digital revolution.

This innovative approach aligns with the global Digital Transformation Centers (DTC) Initiative launched by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Cisco in 2019. With PLDT and Smart acting as the exclusive telecommunications partners in the Philippines, this partnership underscores the PLDT Group’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive digital progress across the nation.

Questions & Answers

How does the “Tech for Good, Tech for All” initiative aim to assist underserved communities?
The initiative seeks to equip Filipinos in underserved communities with essential digital skills by providing access to training programs that focus on practical uses of technology, thus bridging the digital divide.

What specific skills are being taught in the Basic Digital Literacy sessions?
The sessions cover practical digital skills such as smartphone usage, social media navigation, and online selling, specifically tailored for seniors and individuals new to technology.

What is the significance of the Tech4ED-DTCs?
Tech4ED-DTCs are community-based digital hubs that provide critical access to e-government services and learning resources, playing a vital role in facilitating digital inclusion and education.

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