The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) organized a Digital Careers Expo in Sarangani to foster connections among information communication and technology stakeholders, key players, and industry partners. It is also the first in Mindanao.
Themed “Accelerating Global Digital Opportunities for Filipino Talents,” the event on Nov. 28 emphasized diverse digital career prospects for Filipino talents, particularly in the countryside.
Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, the DICT Undersecretary for ICT Industry Development, highlighted the increasingly borderless and seamless nature of the world due to digital technology and emphasized the need to include Sarangani in deploying the digital careers expo across the country.
She pointed out that the DICT has established an inclusive ecosystem, providing opportunities for success regardless of location.
She emphasized that “as long as there’s connectivity, digital skilling platforms, and networks available,” individuals can access opportunities and connect with digital communities to thrive.
As expressed by Ser Rosenkranz Espartero, Executive Assistant IV, Gov. Rogelio D. Pacquiao described the expo as “a gateway to endless possibilities” for talents in Sarangani, aligning with the province’s vision for innovation and advancement.
Gov. Pacquiao highlighted that the expo was a platform for motivating digital enthusiasts, be they seasoned professionals or individuals eager to learn, “to ignite their passion toward global digital opportunities.”
The expo presented topics on Government Support Digital Careers Landscape, Showcasing Digital Careers in the IT-BPM Industry, Creative Industry, Global Market Opportunities in the Online Freelancing Industry, and Showcasing Digital Careers in the Emerging Technologies presented by actual practitioners who have already emerged in digital careers.
Provincial Administrator Ryan Jay Ramos shared about Sarangani’s experience in ensuring a globally competitive Filipino digital workforce and underscored “ICT’s role in local government development as a driver of digital transformation.”
One of the innovations he highlighted is Gov. Pacquiao’s signing of the executive order establishing the Sarangani ICT Council.
The provincial government, he said, is developing an ICT roadmap and master plan for Sarangani Province to integrate systems and applications to enhance service delivery to its constituents.
Sarangani is positioned as an emerging agro-industrial hub in Southern Mindanao, but Ramos said they are also pushing to “open Sarangani as an ICT hub.”
With the inclusion of new ICT infrastructure support facilities in the provincial infrastructure master plan, Ramos pointed out to “put premium on ICT investment.”
The expo was attended by representatives from government agencies, academe, the private sector, and students from different schools.
