Charie Sweet Dablio, 35, was among 51 women who graduated from the ELEVATE AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation) program of the Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz Foundation, Laguindingan government and Connected Women on 7 February.

The mother of four and resident of GK Heights, Kibaghot, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental gained valuable skills in AI and data annotation, which she took up to enhance her family’s financial stability.

After completing her training, Dablio secured a position as a Lead Generation Specialist on the freelancing platform Upwork, where she works with clients from Australia, the PESO Laguindingan, an agency under the Department of Labor and Employment, reported in its Facebook page.

“This role has allowed her to apply the skills she acquired during her training while also providing her with the flexibility to manage her household responsibilities,” the post read. “Earning $3 per hour and working three hours a day, five days a week, Charie has successfully integrated her professional aspirations with her family life, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve a work-life balance.”

Charie’s journey is a testament to the impact of the Elevate Aida program on women’s empowerment and economic independence. By leveraging her newfound skills, she has not only contributed to her family’s income but has also set an inspiring example for other women in her community.

Charie’s success story highlights the importance of providing women with access to education and training, enabling them to pursue their dreams and create a better future for themselves and their families.

Seizing AI opportunities

Elevate Aida is designed to equip women in rural communities with digital skills while fulfilling their roles at home.

Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc., the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, the Aboitiz Foundation, the social responsibility arm of the Abotiz Group, the non-government organization Connected Women, and the Laguindingan municipal government offer the training in remote work skills, including image identification, categorization and other data labeling techniques, for free.

The latest batch of trainees, like Dablio, can now seize opportunities in the growing AI industry while staying close to their families.

“This graduation is a celebration of empowerment, resilience and opportunity. It reflects our belief that progress is not just about what we build but how we build up the people in the places we join. Empowering these women is a step towards unlocking greater opportunities for their families and communities,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital president and CEO Cosette V. Canilao.

Echoing this vision, Aboitiz Foundation president Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar highlighted the critical role of women in driving sustainable community transformation.

“At Aboitiz Foundation, we believe empowering women drives lasting community change. Through the Elevate Aida program, we equip women — including solo parents, homemakers and unemployed mothers — with digital skills that open doors to new opportunities and strengthen families. This is our commitment to inclusive progress,” Hontiveros-Malvar said.

By fostering digital empowerment, the Elevate Aida program exemplifies the Aboitiz Group’s dedication to holistic and people-centric development — ensuring that progress reaches not just infrastructure, but the very individuals who build and sustain communities.

‘Progress is here’

Meanwhile, Laguindingan Municipality Mayor Diosdado T. Obsioma shared his pride and optimism for the development of the town and its people.

“Our vision for Laguindingan is to improve the overall well-being of our people. We’ve waited a long time for progress, and now it’s here, starting with the development of our residents. The Elevate Aida program is a reflection of that progress, as it gives women in our town the tools to improve their lives,” Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental Mayor Diosdado T. Obsioma said.

The program’s collaborative effort reflects a shared vision among stakeholders to uplift women by equipping them with digital skills.

“You have been given a chance to unlock your potential in the digital workforce. This opportunity is your foundation, but staying proactive, applying for roles, and continuing to grow your skills will ensure your success. Connected Women is here to support you every step of the way,” Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio said.

For many of the graduates, the training required balancing various responsibilities, yet the rewards have been life-changing.

“This program has given me confidence and growth, and I’m deeply grateful to Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz Foundation and Connected Women for this opportunity to learn and grow,” shared graduate Doreen Lagunsad.

Elsewhere, Aboitiz InfraCapital has supported the implementation of a pilot Elevate Aida program in Davao City (which is kicking off its second batch) affirming its commitment to fostering inclusive growth. Beyond skills development, the program aligns with the Laguindingan government’s vision of reducing poverty in the province by creating livelihood opportunities for its people.

Through initiatives like Elevate Aida, Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz Foundation and their partners continue to prove that building infrastructure is more than just a physical endeavor — it’s a commitment to creating sustainable and meaningful change for communities.