FOLLOWING Safer Internet Day 2026 in February, Globe, in partnership with the Ayala Foundation, launched Project Pastil at the University of Southern Mindanao in Kabacan, Cotabato Province, bringing digital responsibility closer to students in Mindanao.

The initiative takes its name from pastil, a simple yet nutritious rice meal and a familiar go-to food for students.

Just as pastil helps fill stomachs, Project Pastil aims to “feed” young minds, especially in underserved areas, by equipping them with digital literacy, ethical AI awareness and leadership skills to navigate the online world safely.

ETHICAL AI Students at the University of Southern Mindanao take part in Project Pastil, a Globe program, in collaboration with Ayala Foundation, that reinforces safe internet practices, ethical AI skills and digital entrepreneurship in Mindanao. PHOTO FROM GLOBE

ETHICAL AI Students at the University of Southern Mindanao take part in Project Pastil, a Globe program, in collaboration with Ayala Foundation, that reinforces safe internet practices, ethical AI skills and digital entrepreneurship in Mindanao. PHOTO FROM GLOBE

The program turns the call for collective action against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children or Osaec into tangible support for students, empowering them to build a safer and more responsible digital community.

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The University of Southern Mindanao, a premier public institution established in 1952 and granted university status in 1978, has long been recognized for its programs in science, technology, agriculture, and industry.

Beyond academics, the university has been actively promoting digital inclusion through hackathons, ICT workshops, and youth leadership programs.

The collaboration with Globe and the Ayala Foundation complements these efforts by providing students with hands-on experience in navigating technology safely and responsibly.

Facilitated by Zandra Louise Daraug, Business Development Expert for North Cotabato, the session engaged 40 student leaders and underserved learners, providing them with tools to use digital platforms safely and responsibly in both academic and community settings.

Andrene Buctuan, Area Operations Head for North Cotabato and Maguindanao and Kiss Ekong, Assistant Vice President for Territory Business, also shared their thoughts about the initiative.

Visit https://www.globe.com.ph/ for more information.

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