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In a collaborative effort between the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Kaluppa Foundation, residents of Marinduque were equipped with essential digital skills through a recent training session held at the Kaluppa Integrated Farm in Santa Cruz. The Kaluppa Foundation, a non-profit organisation rooted in Santa Cruz, focuses on enriching the lives of stakeholders through various programmes. These include technical-vocational training, scholarship initiatives and skills assessment processes tailored to uplift the youth and residents of Marinduque, furthering the region’s socio-economic development.
The training focused on Computer Applications and Internet Essentials, aiming to arm participants with proficiency in digital tools for productivity and familiarity with cyber activities crucial for their professional endeavours. Attendees hailed from diverse backgrounds, including unemployed and displaced workers, farmers and their families, students, and aspiring individuals seeking employment opportunities.
Reflecting on the experience, one participant expressed gratitude for the comprehensive approach, ensuring that every moment of the two-day seminar was both informative and engaging.
The trainer’s delivery made complex ideas accessible to all, ensuring no one felt left behind. Another believes that such training will greatly aid small business operations, particularly in managing finances using Microsoft Excel.
These initiatives underscore the commitment of the DICT to address the ICT needs of Filipinos, fostering collaboration with organisations like the Kaluppa Foundation to empower communities and enhance global competitiveness.
The Philippines is dedicated to upskilling its citizens to harness the opportunities of digital transformation, ensuring they become integral members of the future workforce while prioritising their safety, with a range of training options made available.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), under the leadership of Secretary Ivan John Uy, has embarked on a nationwide upskilling initiative to bolster cybersecurity efforts across the Philippines. This initiative comes in response to the escalating cyber threats targeting government digital assets and the need to safeguard the country’s cyberspace effectively.
Secretary Uy outlined the importance of equipping both government workers and the general public with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape safely and securely.
Initially targeting government workers, the DICT aims to expand cyber training to the public this year, aligning with the National Cybersecurity Plan 2024-2028. This strategic initiative, presented to President Marcos, demonstrates the government’s dedication to strengthening cyber defences and safeguarding critical digital infrastructure.
Secretary Uy emphasised the urgency of raising awareness among Filipinos about the risks and threats prevalent in cyberspace. He highlighted past incidents, such as the notorious ILOVEYOU virus in 2000, which wreaked havoc on computer systems worldwide. Secretary Uy pointed out that many cyber incidents could have been mitigated or prevented with greater awareness and vigilance from the public.
The DICT is launching an extensive online campaign to educate Filipinos about cybersecurity threats like phishing scams and malware. By empowering individuals with knowledge to recognise and respond to these threats, they aim to create a safer digital environment.
President Marcos approved the cybersecurity plan, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fortify cyber defences and ensure digital resilience. The plan includes policy development, capacity building, and international collaboration, aiming for Philippine leadership in cyberspace resilience.
Secretary Uy stressed the need to address the high demand for cybersecurity professionals, highlighting over two million job vacancies. Investing in training and upskilling is essential to harness the workforce’s potential and combat cyber threats effectively.
The DICT’s nationwide upskilling initiative underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the Philippines’ cyberspace and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens in an increasingly digital world. Through strategic planning, proactive measures, and collaborative efforts, the Philippines is poised to strengthen its cybersecurity resilience and emerge as a leading force in cyberspace security and innovation.
