BAGUIO CITY — Fresh graduates and job seekers were given the opportunity to grasp digital skills in a session initiated under the partnership between SM Supermalls and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Cordillera through its Information and Communications Technology Literacy and Competency Development Bureau.

The event took place during the SM Job Fair and aimed to prepare participants for the modern workplace by providing practical knowledge alongside job opportunities. The learning activity covered topics on digital literacy, career preparation, information literacy, the eGovPH application, and cybersecurity.

Attendees engaged in discussions designed to build digital competencies, promote responsible online behavior, and boost confidence in using workplace technology. SM City Baguio Assistant Mall Manager Jason Pena noted that the collaboration with DICT-CAR provides participants with valuable skills for the digital economy.

DICT-Cordillera Chief of Technical Operations Engr. Joe Fernando Bucato and his team provided resource speakers who guided participants through practical digital tools and career insights. Organizers stated that the joint effort reflects a shared goal of expanding free educational initiatives and workforce readiness across the Cordillera region.

Participants expressed their impressions of the impact of the session on their career preparation and online safety awareness. Fresh graduate Laarni Azarcon praised DICT and SM City Baguio for helping enhance their digital skills and teaching them how to use technology safely.

Another attendee, Olive Montes, noted the relevance of the cybersecurity discussion following a personal encounter with online fraud.

"Gusto ko pong maging aware sa cybersecurity at cyber hygiene, especially since may experience na po akong na-scam. I wanted to be more aware of that, and I know these lessons will also help me in my future job applications," she said.

Benguet State University (BSU) graduate Emil Diego highlighted the practical value of learning about digital government platforms during the event.

"Ang laking tulong ng ganitong activity para maging aware ako sa mga ganitong serbisyo. Meron palang eGovPH app na pwedeng makatulong sa amin at mas mapadali ang transactions with government offices."

SM Supermalls and DICT-CAR plan to maintain their partnership to deliver additional free upskilling initiatives. Both organizations stated that future programs will continue to focus on equipping job seekers with digital skills to support local employment and workforce growth.