Driving the vision
The initiative, unveiled by Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, Rotary Club of Makati president Eddie Galvez, and Rotary district governor Reggie Nolido, aims to harness the spirit of digital bayanihan—pooling government, private sector, and civic resources to empower vulnerable youth with digital access and future-ready skills.
“Sa DICT, gusto namin na walang batang maiiwan (At DICT, our goal is to ensure that no child gets left behind). Boys' Town and Girls' Town students will not only have internet access, they will gain future-ready skills that open doors to digital jobs, freelancing, and entrepreneurship,” Aguda said.
Connectivity and skills
The program integrates DICT’s Free Wi-Fi for All Program, refurbished devices from private donors, and the National Fiber Backbone to deliver reliable connectivity. Beyond access, the youth will undergo AI literacy, coding, digital citizenship, and online safety bootcamps.
“Gusto ko, konektado ka. Gusto ko, empowered ka (I want you connected. I want you empowered),” Aguda added. “Together with the Rotary Club of Makati, Boys’ Town and Girls’ Town will serve as living proof that technology can change lives, restore dignity, and create opportunity.”
Rotary’s role
The Rotary Club of Makati, a long-time benefactor of the two institutions, will help sustain the initiative through mentorship and community-driven support.
“That is why I ask everyone here today: let us join these young men and women in their journey. Let us do our part to ensure their path leads them to lives that are meaningful, lives that embody Rotary’s maxim: Service Above Self,” Galvez said.
Pathways to opportunity
The program also includes internships, scholarships, and industry partnerships with IT-BPM firms, fintech companies, and global tech leaders to open employment opportunities.
DICT emphasized that the effort aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure no Filipino is left behind in the country’s digital transformation, anchoring progress on the vision of Bagong Pilipinas. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
