By Mikee Natinga Norico

From left to right: Representing the CPU student body, BA Communication students Xandee Bryan Balogo, Kairos Jalando-on, Elaisha Pomida, and Mitch Gabinete pose for a photo after the Digital Bayanihan Kick-Off Program at ISAT-U.

On June 9, 2025, a delegation from Central Philippine University (CPU) actively participated in the “Digital Bayanihan sa Rehiyon Sais” Kick-Off Program held at the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) Covered Gymnasium, La Paz, Iloilo City. The event, spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), marked the beginning of the National ICT Month 2025 celebration and commemorated DICT’s 9th year of service.

With the theme “Walang Iwanan sa Digital Bayanihan,” this year’s observance emphasizes the values of unity, collaboration, and inclusivity in the country’s ongoing digital transformation journey. The kick-off brought together key stakeholders from regional line agencies, higher education institutions (HEIs), and local government units (LGUs), fostering a shared commitment to promoting digital empowerment in Western Visayas.

The CPU delegation includes Elaisha Losaria Pomida (BA Comm – 3), Kairos Rye A. Jalando-on (BA Comm – 3), Mitch Gabinete (BA Comm – 3), Xandee Bryan Balogo (BA Comm – 4), and Ms. Mikee Norico, Publishing Assistant of the CPU-Office of Communications.

The event opened with inspiring welcome remarks from Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., ISAT-U President, who emphasized the role of education in shaping a digitally empowered nation. This was followed by a message from Engr. Gymeo Y. Sollano, OIC–Regional Director of DICT Region 6, who underscored the strategic importance of the month-long celebration in advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda.

Key messages of support were delivered by esteemed regional partners, reinforcing the importance of cross-sector collaboration. Atty. Junine Wednesday Java of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 6 highlighted the DICT–DILG partnership in promoting digital governance at the local level, while Engr. Steven Mel Isturis of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) Region 6 emphasized the agency’s role in securing ICT infrastructure and ensuring digital accessibility. These messages affirmed a shared commitment to inclusive digital development.

A key segment of the kick-off was the official launch of DICT Region 6’s lineup of activities for National ICT Month 2025, which includes impactful initiatives aimed at empowering citizens, boosting digital literacy, and fostering safer, more inclusive digital spaces.

The event also featured insightful presentations from esteemed resource persons across various fields. Atty. Arnold G. Diaz of the National Bureau of Investigation – Western Visayas Regional Office (NBI-WEVRO) discussed “The Psychology of Cybercrime: Why People Fall for Scams,” a crucial topic in today’s digital landscape. Mr. Kent Armel Jaragbas, Planning Assistant I from DICT Region 6, delivered “Seeing Isn’t Always Believing: The Truth About Deepfakes,” emphasizing the need to discern genuine information from manipulated content.

PLT Darius C. Alinsasaguin, Officer-in-Charge of the RACU 6 – Digital Forensic Section, provided timely advice through “Think Before You Click: Building Safer Online Habits,” while Atty. Athena Gabriella Julabar, Associate Lawyer at E.T. Reyes III Law, discussed “Privacy Starts with You: Responsible Data Sharing in the Age of Oversharing,” highlighting the importance of data privacy in an age of unprecedented connectivity.

These presentations were followed by an engaging panel discussion, “eBayanihan Talks: Usapang Cyber Safety at Data Privacy,” where experts shared insights and answered questions, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.

The eGovPH presentation by Mr. Dexter Jayme, Project Development Officer from DICT Region 6, offered a comprehensive overview of the government’s e-governance platform, stressing its vital role in improving service delivery, accessibility, and efficiency.

The program concluded with a Pledge of Commitment led by Engr. Sollano, symbolizing the collective dedication to innovation, cybersecurity, and digital inclusivity. This was followed by a Ceremonial Signing of the Pledge, a symbolic act reflecting the unified commitment of regional line agencies, LGUs, and academic institutions to drive inclusive digital transformation in Western Visayas.

CPU’s participation highlights its continued support for initiatives that promote digital literacy, cybersecurity awareness, and inclusive innovation in the region.