MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) is eyeing for an intensified digital transformation in the province of Lanao del Sur.

DICT-12 and Mainland BARMM Provincial Officer Engr. Amalsalih Asum stressed that they aimed to initiate such a move, seeing that this phenomenon has played a vital part in pursuing national concerns.

"Digital transformation has become a crucial aspect of national recovery and development in today’s world. It also enables greater connectivity and collaboration," he said.

Recognizing the aforementioned positive impacts, Asum expressed that his office has accepted and responded to the necessity of bolstering this transformation.

He recalled that they have previously pushed some efforts relevant to their advocacy, which included the launch of the Broadband ng Masa (BBM) Project in March 2023.

Assume that this is a flagship program of the DICT that is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s digital transformation initiatives, and anchored on the Build Better More (BBM) Program.

He stated that they aimed to establish internet connectivity, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) and indigenous communities.

Accordingly, 18 sites in Marawi City have already benefited from their "Wifi for All" project, while five other areas in Sagonsongan Transitory Shelter also recently enjoyed the same initiative.

Moreover, Asum shared that in terms of their department’s answer to the call for emergency assistance, a project called the Government Emergency Communication System (GECS) was made to disseminate vital information through utilizing ICT for disaster risk reduction and management.

He also mentioned how his office intensified its campaign for cyber security and data privacy.

Assum mentioned that they partnered with the National Privacy Commission and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit to conduct an awareness campaign online.

He likewise stated that they have implemented their startup program pursuant to Republic Act No. 11337, or the Innovative Startup Act, which provides access to opportunities for new and early-stage startups.

In spite of the undertakings they enforced, Assum looked forward to a unified community that would aid in elevating the current situation of ICT in the province.

"Help us work together and be our partners in realizing digitalization within our region in order to help our fellow Bangsamoro [people] recover and develop," he said. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)