LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) – As transitions for the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) began anew, projects, programs, and initiatives in advancing digital transformation in the Bicol region will continue as it welcomes its new secretary, Atty. Ivan John Uy in July.

Engr. Antonio Bonganay, Officer-in-charge in the Technical Operation Division of DICT Region 5, Wednesday, assured Bicolanos that DICT is scrutinizing every aspect of its existing programs to synchronize with its vision and mission.

Some of the flagship programs of DICT include the Cybersecurity or the Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI) Program, Integrated Business Permit and Licensing System (IBPLS), ICT Literacy Competence and Development Bureau (ILCDB), and the  ICT Industry Development Bureau (IIDB).

“Our country is working on the advancement of the Information Technology and Business Process Management industry for the countryside development. This leads to the plan of making Legazpi and Iriga City be Digital Cities in the year 2025,” he said.

The Bicol region also highlights the celebration of the National ICT Month this June through a region-wide series of webinars on digital literacy, free Wi-Fi launchings, and ICT Diagnostic and Proficiency Examinations.

The celebration is anchored on the theme, “Spark, Strengthen, Sustain: Advancing the PH Digital Agenda.” Each week this month, DICT will feature the political and societal history of digitalization; exploration and solutions to ICT issues and challenges; and the journey towards a digital future among new vanguards. (KAVB/PIA5)