THE DEPARTMENT of Information and Communications Technology has installed a Technology for Education, Employment, Entrepreneurs and Economic Development hub in Batanes to help improve the information and communication technology skills of residents.

A Tech4ED Center is a community hub that provides access to learning, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in rural communities.

The DICT lined up digital training and other programs to ensure that the municipality will be empowered digitally.

“We already have connectivity in Itbayat but what is still lacking are ICT skills and equipment so locals can truly maximize digital opportunities. It’s very strategic to put up an e-learning center so we can train people on ICT,” DICT Batanes Provincial Officer Mina Flor Villafuerte said.

DICT Secretary Gregorio Honasan II said that the project provides access to ICT and digital learning.

“ICT connects us to each other, just as much as it connects us to opportunities no matter how far these opportunities may be from our physical location. This is the essence of Tech4ED. It provides access to ICT and digital learning—access that then transforms into empowerment—empowerment that reaches every corner of the country,” he said.

Itbayat Mayor Raul de Sagon and Vice Mayor Ronald Gutierrez officially opened the center.

Batanes Rep. Ciriaco Gato Jr. and Villafuerte also attended the ceremony virtually.

DICT said the hub is the first Tech4ED or e-learning center established in the far north.

Gato said the establishment of the Tech4ED Center in Itbayat showed the government’s determination to provide access to the Internet in every municipality and barangay.

“This project will no doubt benefit everybody,” he said.