In 2024, 96 participants, 62 of which were women, gained expertise in high-growth ICT sectors through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region XI e-Employment training program. Such addresses the skills gap, unclear career paths, and challenges in finding employment or online clients. A post-training survey revealed average monthly earnings of ₱60,000, with top freelancers earning ₱100,000–₱200,000 per month by leveraging niche skills learned through workshops which include Basic 3D Animation as well as Social Media Management for Women, Virtual Assistance for Students, and Mastering Online Job Preparedness for PWDs. This initiative bridges the digital skills gap, connecting trainees to remote work opportunities and fostering inclusive economic growth.

While few of them became online freelancers, some transition into trainers and digital business owners, creating a ripple effect within their communities by providing employment. This feat was made possible through equipping trainees with necessary digital skills that ensure participation in the digital economy.

DICT Region XI’s initiative enhances digital employability, women empowerment and promoting accessibility which helps reduce workforce disparity. By bridging the digital skills gap and expanding economic opportunities we are providing decent work and economic growth.

https://www.facebook.com/DICTDavaoRegion/

• Davao City, Philippines

• Youth
• Women
• People with disabilities
• The unemployed
• The poor
• Remote and rural communities

The training modules on Basic 3D Animation, Social Media Management for Women, Virtual Assistance for Students, and General Transcription for PWDs can be adapted to different local job markets and emerging digital trends. The availability of resource materials and courses online makes it replicable.
The program's focus on women, students, and PWDs ensures that underserved populations gain equal access to economic opportunities. Governments, civil society groups, and educational institutions can localize the training content to meet the unique needs of their communities.
The use of freelancing platforms (Upwork, Linkedin, OnlineJobs.ph) and remote work opportunities ensures global applicability of the skills learned. Learning Management Systems (LMS) and digital training hubs can be deployed in various regions with different levels of internet connectivity.
Collaboration with tech companies, and freelancing platforms enhances job placement and long-term sustainability. The model encourages graduates to become trainers or digital business owners, creating a ripple effect within their communities.

1. Workforce Development addressing Industry Demands
The program equips participants with in-demand digital skills, ensuring they remain competitive in the global job market. Graduates transition into trainers, mentors, or digital business owners, creating a ripple effect by sharing their knowledge within their communities. Continuous program updates incorporate emerging digital trends to maintain relevance and adapt to changing workforce demands.
2. Long-term Viability through Public-Private Partnerships and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
Collaboration with local government units (LGUs), industry partners, freelancing platforms, and educational institutions enhances job placement and ensures long-term viability. Tech companies and freelancing platforms provide market-driven insights to align training with real-world employment opportunities.
3. Scalable and Cost-Effective Implementation
The program leverages blended learning methods (online and in-person training), making it cost-effective and easily adaptable in various regions. Use of open-source learning management systems (LMS) and cloud-based resources reduces training costs and expands accessibility. A train-the-trainer approach allows successful graduates to return as trainers, ensuring continuous knowledge transfer without reliance on external facilitators.
4. Economic Empowerment and Financial Sustainability
The program has already demonstrated economic success, with graduates earning an average of ₱60,000 per month, and top freelancers reaching ₱100,000–₱200,000 per month by leveraging niche skills. By connecting trainees with remote work, freelancing, and entrepreneurial opportunities, the program fosters self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on government funding. Graduates who establish digital businesses or online agencies contribute to job creation, strengthening the local and national digital economy.

1. Digital Inclusivity and Equal Access to Opportunities The program upholds the WSIS commitment to bridging the digital skills gap by ensuring that women, students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) have equal access to ICT training and employment. With 62 out of 96 trainees being women, the initiative promotes diversity and inclusivity in the digital workforce. The inclusion of Mastering Online Job Preparedness training for PWDs demonstrates a strong commitment to providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of social or physical barriers. 2. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing Aligned with WSIS values, the program emphasizes human capacity building by equipping individuals with high-demand digital skills such as Basic 3D Animation, Social Media Management, and Virtual Assistance. Through hands-on training and mentorship, participants gain the necessary competencies to navigate the global job market. Moreover, the initiative fosters a knowledge-sharing culture, where graduates transition into trainers and digital business owners, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the digital workforce within their communities. 3. Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Development The program reflects WSIS values by ensuring that ICT serves as a catalyst for economic empowerment and social progress. By enabling participants to earn ₱60,000 per month on average, with top freelancers earning ₱100,000–₱200,000, the initiative highlights the transformative power of digital employment in improving livelihoods. The program also fosters long-term sustainability, as some trainees establish their own digital businesses, generating employment opportunities for others and contributing to sustainable economic growth.