ICT Summit 2024 highlights digital transformation
In celebration of the National ICT Month 2024 this month of June, the Koronadal ICT Council organized an ICT Summit 2024 held at The Farm at Carpenter Hill, June 20. This event marked the culmination of the month-long celebration, which aimed at bringing together different stakeholders, freelancers, investors and local government units. The summit provided an avenue to the participants to share their respective inputs in leveraging the digital world on the table.
The program started with an opening message delivered by Koronadal City Mayor Atty. Eliordo U. Ogena, who emphasized the importance of digitalization. He said, “[it] has become not just a trend, but a necessity.” He even pointed out that today’s generation is colloquially referred to as the ‘microwave generation‘ who wants everything in an instant and thanks to the power of the internet and digital technologies, that has become accessible. DICT XII Regional Director Ibrahim Guipar also expressed his support for the council, affirming the city and region’s commitment to embracing digital advancements.
Meanwhile, on behalf of the Local Government of Koronadal, Ms. Kirbie Pacinabao, the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer, reassured potential investors that an incentive package awaits those interested in establishing businesses in the city, digital or not. The table below outlines the incentives available to prospective investors upon their investment:
Several company owners, who are also partners of the council, showcased their products and services during the summit aimed at achieving digital excellence. Mr. Clint Kristoffer Junsay, Vice President for Marketing and Communications at EULAP, shared the company’s journey towards digital excellence. EULAP, a locally grown software provider specializing in business solutions, focuses on delivering system solutions to enhance digital operations. Starting modestly, the company initially offered 1-2 services and has since expanded its portfolio to include essential offerings such as school management systems, financial accounting systems, inventory management, payroll management, and web development. Similarly, Mustard Seed Systems Corporation, another partner of the ICT Council, shared a similar success story. They, too, specialize in providing business solutions to various clients.
Later that day, an open forum was held to address the questions and concerns of the participants. One notable question raised pertained to the security implications of using free WiFi in public spaces. It was highlighted that Koronadal City, in its commitment to advancing digitalization locally, has installed free WiFi access points at Rizal Park and installation at the Koronadal Public Market is in progress. This initiative prompted inquiries regarding the safety of utilizing such networks. In response, ICT Council Co-chairperson Mr. Christian Valeen Chiu acknowledged that there is inherent risk in WiFi usage, whether it is free or not. He emphasized the importance for users to exercise caution, particularly when clicking on links or sharing OTP (One-Time Password) codes. Mr. Chiu advised attendees to adopt a vigilant approach and be discerning consumers of digital services.
The Summit concluded with a networking session, providing participants an opportunity to exchange insights, pose questions, and engage in discussions. Spearheaded by the Koronadal ICT Council and its partners, the event was deemed a success.
Previously, the Koronadal ICT Council also organized different activities such as job fair and press conference as part of the month-long celebration.