Learners from Albay received new laptops and training on digital literacy from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Wednesday.

DICT-5 Director Rachel Ann Grabador said through the Project Courses for Literacy in Internet and Computer Knowledge (Project CLICK), the agency aims to bridge the digital divide and promote equal access to opportunities.

“We ensure that more than just a program, this effort embodies a movement of digital bayanihan, ensuring that every Bicolano, regardless of location or background, is given the chance to learn, grow, and thrive in the digital age,” she said in an interview on Thursday. “For this year, we still have the upcoming implementation in the provinces of Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon.”

Beneficiaries, from high school to college, were from the towns of Camalig, Rapu-Rapu, Daraga, Manito, Bacacay, and Malilipot, as well as the cities of Legazpi and Tabaco.

Before the laptop turnover ceremony, beneficiaries joined a five-day digital literacy training program.

The turnover ceremony was held at Embarcadero de Legazpi and was attended by DICT officials, local chief executives and representatives, and AKB (Ako Bicol) party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr., who is collaborating with DICT to implement the project in Albay.

“We partner with DICT to equip students because, in today’s digital world, we need assistance and tools like these. That’s why, as part of our advocacy for education, we continually seek ways to assist students,” Garbin said.

Garbin added that he secured a commitment from DICT Secretary Henry Aguda to prioritize providing free internet access and reliable connectivity to geographically isolated and disadvantaged schools in Albay and throughout the region.

“Secretary Aguda assured us that by December, we will begin implementation because the funds will be released to their department. We were able to secure this commitment,” he said. (PNA)