ILOILO CITY — Over 440 young people from Iloilo and Negros Occidental are now better equipped to navigate the digital world safely. Globe Telecom conducted interactive training sessions under its Digital Thumbprint Program, reaching students with practical knowledge on cybersecurity, responsible social media use, and privacy protection. The initiative aims to shape a more informed and vigilant generation of digital citizens across Western Visayas.
At Carlos Hilado Memorial State University in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, 243 first-year Criminology students participated during the school's University Week celebration. The session, held in partnership with the Criminology Department, addressed key digital risks including online threats, data privacy, and responsible online conduct. The training provided students with tools to protect themselves and others in an increasingly connected world.
Building a Safer Digital Future for Western Visayas
Globe Telecom territory business head for Western Visayas Jun Juada emphasized the urgency of digital literacy for today's youth. "As digital platforms become an essential part of everyday life, empowering the youth with the right knowledge and mindset is more important than ever," he said. The program helps young Filipinos become more responsible digital citizens and contribute to safer online communities.
The Digital Thumbprint Program reflects Globe's broader commitment to digital inclusion and online safety. By bringing cybersecurity education directly to campuses, the initiative ensures that students gain practical skills they can apply immediately. The training covers maintaining a secure digital footprint, recognizing online threats, and understanding the long-term consequences of digital behavior.
Strengthening Iloilo's Digital-Ready Workforce
For Iloilo, a city rapidly emerging as a hub for BPO operations and tech-enabled services, a cyber-literate youth population is a valuable asset. The training aligns with the city's broader push toward digital transformation, which includes the DICT's free Wi-Fi rollout and the upcoming AI Festival in August. A workforce grounded in cybersecurity awareness strengthens the region's attractiveness to investors and employers.
The sessions also complement the Department of Information and Communications Technology's ongoing efforts to expand digital literacy across the country. By partnering with academic institutions, Globe ensures that cybersecurity education reaches students at a formative stage. For the 440 participants, the training marks an important step toward becoming responsible, security-conscious digital citizens in an era of rapid technological change.
