In a shared effort to promote inclusive digital learning, the Aboitiz Foundation, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), GoDigital Philippines, and Huawei Philippines, joined forces at the Bridging the Digital Gap: Laptops for Learning Turnover Ceremony held at Ayala Triangle Gardens 2.
The event marked the handover of 100 brand-new laptops to Filipino learners and highlighted the growing partnership between the private sector, government, and NGOs to make digital access a right, not a privilege.
“When given the right tools, youth can really thrive anywhere,” said Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, emphasizing how technology can empower the next generation to achieve their full potential.
Opening doors to creativity and opportunity
The ceremony brought together leaders from government, business, and technology, united by a shared vision that no Filipino should be left behind in the digital era.
For Hontiveros-Malvar, the initiative goes beyond distributing laptops:
“They open doors to creativity, opportunity, and dignity,” she said, tying the moment to Aboitiz’s ongoing transformation into the Philippines’ first “techglomerate.”
Aboitiz Foundation has been at the forefront of pushing inclusive growth through education and technology. Earlier flagship programs include Aurora PH, which brings renewable energy and connectivity to last-mile schools, and Elevate AIDA, which empowers women in remote areas to become participants in the new digital economy.
Digital Bayanihan
DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda broadened the lens, citing two landmark laws – the Konektadong Pinoy Act and the E-Government Act – designed to guarantee universal connectivity, affordability, security, disaster resilience, and service accountability.
He described the initiative as a model of digital bayanihan, where government and the private sector unite to bridge gaps in access and opportunity.
Turning Tools Into Opportunities
Hontiveros-Malvar also shared the story of a student from one of the Aurora PH-powered schools who, despite her family not being able to afford books, used a borrowed tablet and an internet connection to continue learning.
She expressed hope that with these 100 laptops, more students like her will gain access to opportunities that can change their lives, helping them learn, create, and succeed.
Finding their place in the digital world
For GoDigital Philippines Executive Director Mishy Co, the turnover was more than a ceremonial handover. It was a reminder of how far a shared vision can go. She recalled the early days of the initiative nearly two years ago, when the idea was first sparked under then Digital Infrastructure Lead for the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and now DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.
In a world where online spaces are often filled with negativity, Co said, moments like this offer hope in the form of opportunities for the next generation and in building a truly inclusive digital future.
“This laptop turnover is a chance to dream bigger and learn better, ensuring Filipino youth are not just keeping up but finding their place in the digital world,” added Co.
Keep building, connecting, believing
The stakeholders are in agreement that this milestone is only the beginning. As technology continues to evolve, so must the commitment to digital inclusion.
Hontiveros-Malvar reflected on the bigger picture, stressing that this turnover is “another chapter in an ongoing story” – a reminder of what’s possible when the government, private sector, and communities come together.
The challenge now is clear: keep building, keep connecting, and keep believing that with the right tools, every Filipino youth can thrive, anywhere.
