Learners in Albay received new laptops and digital literacy training from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Wednesday as part of its Project Courses for Literacy in Internet and Computer Knowledge (Project CLICK).
DICT-5 Director Rachel Ann Grabador said the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and promote equal access to opportunities. “We ensure that more than just a program, this effort embodies a movement of digital bayanihan, ensuring that every Bicolano, regardless of location or background, is given the chance to learn, grow, and thrive in the digital age,” she said.
Beneficiaries, ranging from high school to college students, came from towns including Camalig, Rapu-Rapu, Daraga, Manito, Bacacay, and Malilipot, as well as the cities of Legazpi and Tabaco. They first participated in a five-day digital literacy training program before the laptop turnover ceremony at Embarcadero de Legazpi.
AKB (Ako Bicol) party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr., who is collaborating with DICT on the project, said, “We partner with DICT to equip students because, in today’s digital world, we need assistance and tools like these. That’s why, as part of our advocacy for education, we continually seek ways to assist students.”
Garbin also secured a commitment from DICT Secretary Henry Aguda to provide free internet access and reliable connectivity to geographically isolated and disadvantaged schools in Albay and across the region, with implementation expected to begin by December.