#TechPH - PLDT and Smart’s #BeCyberSmart Initiative: Empowering Communities in Occidental Mindoro
In today’s digital age, staying safe online is more important than ever. That’s why PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc., the Philippines’ leading integrated telco network, are on a mission to spread cybersecurity awareness through their #BeCyberSmart initiative. Recently, they took their efforts to Occidental Mindoro, partnering with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) - MIMAROPA (Region 4B) to educate local government IT officers on effective reputation management techniques in the face of cybercrime.
Held at the provincial capitol, this training session was a deep dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for Filipinos. Elijah Mendoza, Smart’s Senior Manager for Digital Communications, emphasized that AI is a tool at our disposal, not the other way around. “A.I. should be viewed as a tool, and as such, a human is in control of how the technology is used,” he said.
The session also covered essential topics like protecting personal information online and using free AI-powered tools to detect scams and fake content. Ian Pagurayan from Smart’s Cyber Security Operations Group highlighted the importance of ethical considerations in cybersecurity, stressing that awareness and vigilance are our best defenses against cyber threats.
This training is part of the Digital Transformation Center (DTC) Initiative, a program by the International Telecommunication Union and Cisco, implemented by the DICT in the Philippines. PLDT and Smart support this initiative, helping to bring digital skills development to underserved communities. Last August, PLDT and Smart’s Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan handed over the “DTC On-the-Go” package to DICT Secretary Ivan John Enrile Uy, aiming to extend digital upskilling to remote areas.
Since 2019, PLDT and Smart have been conducting #BeCyberSmart sessions across various communities, including schools, local government units, small businesses, cooperatives, and special interest groups. These efforts are part of a broader mission to enhance customer experience by safeguarding them from digital threats.
By empowering communities with knowledge and tools, PLDT and Smart are not just improving cybersecurity but also fostering a safer, more informed digital environment for everyone.
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