Cebu: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday commended private organizations for their donation of computer tablets and Starlink internet devices to select remote schools in Cebu. This donation is a part of the collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing digital accessibility in underserved regions.

According to Philippines News Agency, this development follows DepEd’s partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), iACADEMY, and Republic Asia under the Pay IT Forward: A Digital Transformation Advocacy initiative. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of this project, highlighting how it bridges the digital divide by providing essential tools to learners in remote areas.

Secretary Angara stated, “Our partners are not just helping us implement projects. They’re helping us solve deeply rooted challenges. Through this effort, we are reaching the most remote communities and giving them the same digital tools available in urban centers.” This initiative underscores the commitment to ensure digital equity and empowerment for all students.

Under the initiative, one-hundred tablets and three satellite internet kits were distributed to eight public high schools across Cebu. The beneficiary schools include Eduardo T. Oporto Memorial National High School in Bogo City, Kalagyawon National High School in Carcar City, and several others across different cities in the region.

Secretary Angara further noted, “A digital tool in the hands of a learner is a doorway to the future. It is access, it is equity, it is empowerment. In Bagong Pilipinas (the New Philippines), we are not just catching up with the world, we are preparing every Filipino child to lead in it.” This initiative is set to extend to Marawi, further expanding its reach and impact.