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Taking a step forward towards its vision of a truly digitally inclusive and progressive Philippines, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched the Smart Village Initiative in Sacol Island, Zamboanga City on 29 June 2023 and marked the culmination of the National ICT (NICT) Month 2023 celebration.

In his message, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy emphasized the department’s dedication to provide connectivity in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA), enabling Filipinos to actively participate in the digital economy and closing the digital gap in the nation.

“We were able to allow the connection of Sacol Island through our wireless technology. For the first time, the island was able to connect to the Internet. Now, they will be able to communicate with their loved ones, transact business online, access their online, e-wallets, or electronic payments, as well as to be able to open digital bank account,” Secretary Uy said.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU)-led Smart Village Initiative seeks to equip its beneficiaries with the necessary ICT tools and access to connectivity to improve and expand services in healthcare, education, agriculture, and local governance. Further, by adopting the whole-of-government approach, other government agencies, such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and private sector partners will assist the DICT providing skills training programs in the Sacol Island Smart Village.

DICT Assistant Secretary for Regional Development and concurrent Officer-in-Charge of Region IX and BASULTA, Maria Teresa M. Camba said the Smart Village Initiative will aid in implementing the sustainable development goals and meet the identified needs of the community in Sacol. “We have invited many agencies, both from the government and the private sector. We need to be with them because the other community needs identified were not necessarily ICT related,” Asec. Camba said.

Moreover, National ICT Month 2023 Steering Committee Chair DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue also expressed her full support for the launch as ITU Councilor of the Philippines, particularly since it reflects the theme of this year’s NICT month “Connecting Communities, Enriching Lives, Forging a Digital Future for the Philippines.” “This theme encapsulates the vision and goals of the government and the ICT sector in harnessing technology to foster connectivity, enhance quality of life, and drive the country’s digital transformation.” Usec. Batapa-Sigue said.

Also present during the event to express their support were Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe, representatives from the Southern Philippines Development Authority; Yakan Association, Sacol Island, Zamboanga City;Sacol Island Barangays; Department of Education Zamboanga City Division; Landang Gua Elementary School; Pasilmanta Elementary School; Busay Elementary School; Landang Laum Elementary School; Zamboanga City Medical Center; TESDA Zambo-Isabela; Department of Labor and Employment; Department of Trade and Industry; Department of Science and Technology; Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources; Department of Public Works and Highways; Zamboanga City Medical Center; Zamboanga City Water District; Rotary Club Zamboanga City – West; PIA Western Mindanao; PTV Mindanao; Globe Telecom; PLDT/Smart; DITO Telecommunity; Nature Spring; Regional Emergency Assistance Communication Team; Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard; Philippine National Police – Police Regional Office IX; Western Mindanao Command; Joint Task Force Zamboanga; Philippine Navy and other crucial stakeholders.