GoDigital Pilipinas Movement Empowers over 2000 locals in La Union with Digital Transformation
San Juan, La Union – The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) took a leading role in propelling digital transformation in La Union during the highly impactful GoDigital Pilipinas (GDP) Northern Luzon Kick Off, which reached over 2000 locals, held on May 26th and 27th, 2023. This significant event, organized by a coalition of industry leaders, government agencies, and technology advocates, aims to accelerate digital adoption and innovation across various sectors in the region.
GoDigital Pilipinas, a nationwide movement, focuses on empowering youth and students; local government units and communities; and the micro, small, medium enterprises or MSMEs by harnessing the potential of digital technologies. The event in La Union witnessed the active involvement of the PSAC, a collective of influential private sector organizations dedicated to driving economic growth and development through digitalization.
Over the course of two days, attendees participated in a series of engaging activities, that highlighted the importance of digitalization in today’s rapidly evolving world, including the University talk in Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Panel Discussions on Digital Transformation for Government and MSMES, Interactive web 3.0 gaming event, and the GoDigital music festival in Flotsam and Jetsam. Renowned experts and thought leaders shared their insights on topics such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, data privacy, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.
During the Kick Off, La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David reported the State of Digitalization of La Union, and gave her statement of support to GoDigital Pilipinas Movement and its key strategy of 5 PACES to GDP (Policies and Programs, Access to Digital Technologies, Capabilities and digital skills, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Security of Digital Rights). Director General Ernesto V. Perez also presented the digitalization initiatives of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) including the Business One Stop Shop or BOSS which requires Local Government Units (LGUs) to provide a single window for the submission of all requirements.
The GoDigital Pilipinas movement takes a significant step forward by signing a powerful manifesto aimed at enhancing and empowering the digital landscape of the Philippines. In photo are GoDigital Pilipinas Chair Charlie Gatmaitan, PSAC Digital Infrastructure Sector Lead Henry Aguda, La Union Governor Rafy Ortega-David, DICT Regional Director Reynaldo Sy, DICT Director June Vincent Gaudan, ARTA Director General Ernesto Perez, and the two ladies signing the manifesto are GoDigital Pilipinas member-convener Ida Tiongson and DBM Usec Sasa del Rosario.
The GoDigital Pilipinas movement also focused on promoting digital literacy and inclusivity. Several workshops were conducted to equip participants with the necessary skills to leverage digital tools effectively. Students and young professionals were encouraged to pursue careers in technology and entrepreneurship, fostering a spirit of innovation and creativity within the local community. DMMMSU and GoDigital Pilipinas also forged a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding that will promote the importance of digital skills training, enable the students to take on jobs in the digital economy, and establish a framework for collaboration for a Smart GoDigital University.
Government officials played a crucial role in the event, emphasizing the importance of digital transformation in driving economic growth and sustainable development. They highlighted various initiatives and support programs that aim to assist businesses and individuals in adapting to the digital age.
Mr. Carlos Jose Gatmaitan, Chairman of GoDigital Pilipinas, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s outcomes, stating, “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response and enthusiasm shown by the La Union community. The GoDigital Pilipinas movement aims to empower individuals and businesses to embrace digital technologies and unlock their full potential. We firmly believe that this event has set the stage for a more digitally connected and prosperous future for La Union.”
Last March, GDP movement also made its first stop in Aurora, Baler. With over a thousand participants, including entrepreneurs, government officials, students, and technology enthusiasts, the event served as a platform for sharing insights, fostering collaboration, and inspiring action towards digital transformation. GDP movement will also do a caravan to other major areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
As the GoDigital Pilipinas movement gains momentum, plans are already underway to extend its reach to other regions across the Philippines. By fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technological advancements, the movement aims to create a digital ecosystem that benefits all Filipinos, irrespective of their location or background.
