A state-run shelter seeking to protect rescued women and children is now home to one of the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s newest Tech4Ed centers.

In partnership with the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental, the DICT launched a Tech4Ed center at the Reception Study and Diagnostic Center (RSDC) in Mati City, Davao Oriental. The government-run facility is part of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) programs and services.

Tech4Ed centers, in general, seek to enable ICT services in Philippine communities with minimal to no access to information. To establish the new facility in Davao Oriental, the DICT brought three sets of computers and a printer, adding that “more ICT equipment [will] be added soon.”

RSDC Head Aileen Lardizabal thanked the national government, noting that this project will greatly benefit the shelter and its beneficiaries.

“We may not be able to ease the painful experiences of the children; however, by molding them with proper education and counseling, providing their basic needs and the right tools, indeed [they] can thrive and work their way in achieving their hopes and aspirations in life,” said Lardizabal.

To date, 37 Tech4Ed centers are active in the Province of Davao Oriental. In line with the administration’s vision, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said they will “open more Tech4Ed centers across the country” to further bridge and eventually end the digital divide.