June 7, 2024 – The National ICT Month and University Town Summit have officially commenced at the Bataan People’s Center, led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Bataan and the City Government of Balanga, Sangguniang Panlungsod Members, through the University Town Education Council UTEC and City Education Excellence Development Office. This event not only marks the 8th anniversary of DICT Bataan but also underscores the critical role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the province’s development.
The event, which saw active participation from thousands of students from Bataan Peninsula State University BPSU and various private colleges and universities, commenced with opening remarks by Engr. Antonio Edward E. Padre, Regional Director of DICT Region III. Engr. Padre set the tone for the day’s activities, emphasizing the importance of June as ICT Month, which coincides with the anniversary of the DICT’s establishment under Republic Act 10844 on June 9, 2016.
DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy emphasized the national significance of ICT and the department’s ongoing efforts to digitalize the country. Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia echoed this sentiment, discussing the pivotal role of the DICT in the country’s digital transformation and the local government’s full support for these initiatives. He invited everyone to seize every opportunity to acquire knowledge and leverage the University Town Summit for growth and development.
Governor Joet Garcia spoke about the event’s importance in immersing students in current developments within the city and province, urging them to utilize technology for efficient management in both the public and private sectors. Dr. Ruby Santos-Matibag, President of the Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) and a member of the University Town Education Council, also shared her insights on the significance of ICT in education and development. She acknowledged the unwavering support of Mayor Francis Garcia in addressing the needs and requests of the university, highlighting how his commitment has greatly contributed to the enhancement of the campus facilities and resources.
The program continued with Mr. Gerald Calamaan, Provincial Head of DICT Bataan, reporting on the significant ICT accomplishments of the province. This was followed by the TechTalk Blockchain Seminar featuring Mr. Floi Wycoco, Senior Campaigns Manager of Coins.ph, and Mr. Robert Josef De Guzman, Chief Legal Officer of Coins.ph. They provided an in-depth look at blockchain technology and its applications. In attendance also are the Bataan ICT Council and BACCI Pres BJ Banzon.
Further, Dir. Arlene I. Pascual, GAD CHRE Director, conducted a Gender and Development Talk, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in ICT growth. The event also featured engaging activities, including raffles with exciting prizes such as cash, iPhones, and iPads.
Certificates of appreciation were awarded to Mayor Francis Garcia, Governor Joet Garcia, and Dr. Ruby Santos-Matibag for their continuous support and contributions to the ICT initiatives. The event concluded with closing remarks from Engr. Mario Antonio Aya-ay, TOD Chief of DICT Region III, encapsulated the day’s successes and reiterated the importance of ongoing ICT development.
The theme of ICT Month, “Bayang Digital, Ang Bagong Pilipinas,” reflects the vision of a digitalized and progressive Philippines. The event left attendees inspired and motivated, with a clear message that the future of ICT in Bataan is bright and full of opportunities.
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