SM City Baguio, DICT-CAR hold digital learning sessions for community

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — SM City Baguio and the Department of Information and Communications Technology-Cordillera Administrative Region (DICT-CAR) conducted two learning initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy, career readiness and responsible technology use among jobseekers, children and senior citizens.

The activities, held in partnership with DICT-CAR, included a digital skills and career preparation session for jobseekers and fresh graduates, as well as a separate introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) for children and older participants.

According to a media release issued by SM Supermalls, the jobseekers’ session was conducted through the SM Job Fair in partnership with DICT-CAR’s Information and Communications Technology Literacy and Competency Development Bureau (ILCDB).

The session covered digital literacy and career preparation, information literacy and the eGovPH App, and cybersecurity and cyber hygiene.

The topics were intended to help participants better understand digital tools, access government services and recognize online security risks in an increasingly technology-driven workplace.

“Through our partnership with DICT-CAR and the ILCDB, participants gained practical skills in digital literacy, cybersecurity, and navigating the eGovPH App, tools that are essential in today’s digital economy,” SM City Baguio assistant mall manager Jason Peña said.

The partnership also included a separate learning activity on artificial intelligence, introducing children and senior citizens to the technology’s basic concepts, practical applications and responsible use.

Through discussions and demonstrations, children explored how AI could support learning and creativity, while senior citizens were introduced to digital tools and online safety considerations.

Participants said the sessions offered practical lessons relevant to their daily activities.

Laarni Azarcon, who attended the jobseekers’ session, expressed appreciation for the initiative, particularly its discussions on strengthening digital skills and using technology responsibly.

Senior participant Cheryl Alquiza said the AI session helped her become more aware of online scams and the precautions needed when using digital and financial services.

DICT-CAR resource speaker Engineer Katherine Aguilar emphasized the importance of making technology education accessible across generations.

She noted that the participation of children and senior citizens demonstrated that digital learning could benefit people at different stages of life.

Aguilar also recognized SM City Baguio as a venue for community learning and greater familiarity with emerging technologies.

The initiatives come amid the growing importance of digital competencies in employment, access to information and everyday transactions.

For jobseekers, familiarity with digital tools and cybersecurity practices can support workplace readiness, while basic AI awareness and online safety knowledge can help younger and older users navigate emerging technologies more responsibly.

SM City Baguio and DICT-CAR said their partnership reflects a shared commitment to making digital education more accessible to the community.

The programs underscore the value of lifelong learning as technology continues to influence how Filipinos work, communicate and access services.