Faculty members from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) actively participated in the three-day “Synergy for Creative, Smart, and Inclusive Communities” summit held from April 3 to 5, 2025, at Agora Hall, Thunderbird Resort, City of San Fernando, La Union.
Organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP), the summit brought together stakeholders from the government, academe, private sector, and civil society to promote digital transformation and inclusive development.
The event formally opened with welcome remarks from City Mayor Hon. Hermenegildo “Dong” Gualberto, who emphasized the importance of innovation in local governance. This was followed by messages of support from First District Congressman Hon. Francisco Paolo Ortega, who underscored legislative efforts to advance ICT development, and an overview of the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP) presented by Mr. Jessraf Palmares, who highlighted the role of grassroots collaboration in building smart cities.
DICT Secretary Atty. Henry Rhoel Aguda delivered a compelling keynote address, outlining the agency’s roadmap for digital governance and connectivity. Joining him was Ms. Sherie Ng, Managing Director for Converge ICT, who shared insights on expanding digital infrastructure in underserved communities.
Participants engaged in specialized learning tracks that covered key themes such as digital ecosystems, smart city initiatives, e-governance models, talent development, and cybersecurity best practices. These sessions featured high-caliber speakers, including TESDA Director General Mr. Kiko Benitez, who tackled digital upskilling and workforce readiness; MicroSourcing CEO Ms. Haidee Enriquez, who explored the future of remote work and outsourcing; and Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Director Rojun Hosillos, who addressed the country’s efforts in combating cyber threats. Panel discussions during the summit focused on using ICT in local development, helping the youth join the digital workforce, and using data to improve communities. DMMMSU faculty members namely Dr. Alvin Malicdem, Dr. Mark Kristian Ledda, Dr. Eusebio Mique, Dr. Arnold Licay, Dr. Joseph Patacsil, Dr. Brian Ricafort, Dr. Edelita C. Ebuenga, and Dr. Rhoda M. Lilan, also engaged in the discussions and connected with leaders from other places. Mr. Denver Novencido, Ms. Edelval Malam, Ms. Shekainah Kim Sardeng, Ms. Love Joy Maquiling served as the secretariat. (By Rochelle M. Verganio)
