First digital transformation center in PH launched in Basilan

By: Nilda T. Delos Reyes

 

ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Sept 17 (PIA) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Mindanao Cluster 1 launched here the country's first Digital Transformation Center.

 

Regional Director Maria Teresa Camba and Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia T. Hataman led the ribbon-cutting of the Digital Transformation Center at DICT Office at Barangay Port Area as an initiative to strengthen digital capacities of citizens, particularly underserved communities. 

 

The DTCs primary function is to serve as an incubation hub which provide an environment of learning growth for start-up businesses as they develop tech-enabled solutions to society’s pressing need. This will also serve as co-working space equipped with ICT resources for freelancers and workers.

 

This will also serve as training center to cater ICT skills training relevant to community needs.

 

Mayor Sitti Djalia T. Hataman is very grateful to the innovation as she hopes that this will help Isabeleños and Basileños, especially learners and workers who need access to internet.

 

“Napakahalaga ho nito lalo na ngayong panahon ng pandemya, and I think tuloy-tuloy na rin na digital-based po ang ating education at ang ating economy so talagang napakahalaga na hindi po napag-iiwanan ang mga taga-Isabela, ang mga taga-Basilan,” Mayor Hataman said.

 

(This is very important, especially during this time of pandemic and I think it will also continue that our education and economy is already digital-based that is why it is also very important that people in Isabela City and Basilan will not be left behind.)

 

On the same day, DICT, together with the Provincial Government of Basilan launched the free WiFi for all in the province which aims to accelerate the Philippine government’s efforts in enhancing internet accessibility for Filipinos so that economic, social and educational opportunities will be bolstered and the growing digital divide can be bridged.

 

Director Camba explained that teamwork and strong collaboration with the local government has enabled them to achieve the milestone.

 

“I am pleased to share that all municipalities now have at least one Very Small Apperture Terminal (VSAT). DICTs Free internet initiative is now live in 100% of municipalities and cities in the province of Basilan,” she said.

 

DICT reported the province now has 39 activated free-WiFi for all in different locations and established six Tech4Ed Centers which are found in Isabela City, Sumisip, Lantawan, Maluso, Tuburan and Mohammad Ajul. (RVC/EDT/NDR/PIA9-Basilan)