A former overseas Filipino worker who is an information technology (IT) expert has received an innovation funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for the implementation of his “eBarangayPH” System project. 

Ruel Bermudez became the first  funding recipient of the DOST’s iFWD PH or Innovations for Filipinos  Working Distantly from the Philippines Program.

"The DOST-NCR has approved its first project under Phase 2: Innovation Funding for technology-based enterprise of the Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH) Program,” DOST Secretary Fortunato  “Boy” T. de la Peña said during his weekly report on Friday, March 19.

He said Bermudez completed Phase 1 or the Capability Building for the Development and Management of Technology-based Enterprise through iFWD PH program.

"Former OFW Ruel Bermudez conceptualized his project to cater to the needs of the barangays and local government units in terms of accessing and organizing records, calling his system “eBarangayPH”,” de la Peña said. 

"The eBarangayPH system is a product of Mr. Bermudez’ experience as an IT project manager for 10 years and as a Senior Web Developer for 20 years, combined with his realizations on the existing challenges concerning e-governance in the country,” he cited. 

iFWD PH program provides support and opportunities for OFWs and their families to establish technology-based enterprises in the country through trainings and webinar sessions including technology pitching and technical consultancies.

"Mr. Bermudez applied to the iFWD PH Program as part of the first batch in 2020. Since the start of the program, he has consistently worked on his preferred sector and proposed technology-based enterprise which was further improved during the consultations and supplementary training provided during Phase 1 of the Program,” de la Peña said.

"Based on his performance and the quality of his outputs, Mr. Bermudez was considered as one of the pilot run’s top performers having impressively progressed until the Phase 1 completion.”

Under the iFWD PH program, those who can complete the training will be qualified to apply for an innovation fund for technical trainings, product development and market testing, operational consultancy services, initial laboratory  testing, packaging and labeling design and execution for market testing, and equipment acquisition.

"Mr. Bermudez has already secured the business registrations and permits for Bermudez Software Development Services – a company that is “engaged in providing affordable and effective IT solutions to private and public organizations”.” de la Peña said.