Andrie Hans Bayon

To strengthen the country's job security, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched its flagship “Trabahong Digital” program on June 5, with a bold initiative to create eight million digital jobs by 2028. 

Photo Courtesy of ABS-CBN News.

The announcement came as the agency kicked off this year’s National ICT Month in Basco, Batanes, with the theme of “Walang Iwanan sa Digital Bayanihan”, highlighting the department’s commitment to digital inclusion. 

“The rollout of this flagship program marks a bold step toward inclusive economic recovery and digital transformation under the leadership of newly appointed DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda,” said DICT Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson Renato Paraiso.

DICT explained that the “Trabahong Digital”  program seeks to expand internet connectivity nationwide, focusing on geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas and equipping Filipinos with digital skills essential for remote work. 

“Dalawang aspetong may kaugnayan sa ICT ang malapit sa ating Pangulo. Una ay ang paglikha ng trabaho mula sa digital economy o ‘trabahong digital.’ Pangalawa ay siguruhing ang connectivity ay maipaabot sa bawat sulok ng bansa,” the agency noted.

Paraiso said that championing digital trust and safety by upgrading data privacy protocols and holding digital platforms, such as Meta, accountable for identifying and removing fake job advertisements, is one of the agency’s plans to take under the new leadership of DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda.

In addition, the agency is also in the process of modernizing online public services by providing fast and efficient government e-services that will streamline long and complicated processes, making all government portals user-friendly and more accessible to Filipinos. 

“Driving the digital-first economy will maximize job opportunities and business growth through digital skills empowerment and by providing our people with the tools they need to succeed,” DICT Secretary Henry Aguda stated.

The agency expressed confidence in achieving its job creation goals, citing partnerships with local government units, state universities and colleges, and private sector stakeholders.