DOLE and DICT push digital tools for women-owned MSMEs

1 of 2

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office VI and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region VI launched a joint initiative on March 25, 2026. Entitled “Serbisyong DOLE at DICT Para kay Juana,” the event took place at the DICT Training Center in Iloilo City as part of the National Women’s Month celebration.

This collaboration was designed to help local entrepreneurs integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their daily business operations. Beyond technical skills, the initiative sought to transform micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) toward sustainable economic growth and advance the landscape of digital entrepreneurship in the region.

A group of 20 women entrepreneurs attended the session, which featured an orientation titled “AI for Business Productivity & Cybersecurity Awareness for Women-Owned MSMEs”. These participants were selected for their eagerness to strengthen both their digital literacy and their fundamental business management skills.

DICT Chief of Technical Operations Division Jimuel Española welcomed the attendees and urged them to maximize the training to enhance their business operations. This call to action set the stage for a day focused on practical innovation and the modernization of traditional business models.

The program also highlighted the government’s support mechanisms for small businesses through DOLE. DOLE AMP Focal Person Yulee Adan Salvarita discussed the specifics of the DOLE-AMP program, outlining the requirements necessary for entrepreneurs to avail of the agency’s support.

Addressing the social dimension of business, GAD Focal Person Glen Mar C. Padios discussed how gender equality fosters inclusion in the workplace. He urged the participants to adopt gender-responsive practices while managing their enterprises, emphasizing that such inclusion is vital even as digitalization emerges as a dominant force.

John Micheal Lagos, a DICT Information System Researcher, led a session on AI for Business Productivity. During his presentation, he demonstrated how AI tools can be integrated into entrepreneurship to improve overall efficiency and assist in more informed decision-making.

Complementing the productivity tools was a focus on digital safety led by DICT Information Officer Engr. Joshua Mellada. His session on Cybersecurity Awareness equipped the women with practical knowledge to protect their enterprises from online threats and ensure the safety of their digital operations.

Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez, Jr. expressed strong support for the initiative, noting that empowering women through digital skills is vital to inclusive growth. He emphasized that such innovation is a key driver for strengthening community development across Western Visayas.

Through this partnership, both agencies aim to build resilient and innovative communities. By continuously equipping women with modern tools, DOLE and DICT intend to ensure that MSMEs in the region have the opportunity to thrive in a competitive digital economy.

For further inquiries, the public may contact the DOLE I-Text hotlines:

• DOLE Regional Office: 09173276515, 09178351588, 09173276818, or 09989795369
• Iloilo Field Office: 09173276719
• Aklan Field Office: 09173273132
• Antique Field Office: 09173275313
• Capiz Field Office: 09173275220
• Guimaras Field Office: 09176582101
• Negros Occidental Field Office: 09173275919
• Boracay Satellite Office: 09177144993