THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP), Abakada Studios, and the local government units (LGUs) of Del Carmen and General Luna in Surigao del Norte, staged the inaugural Digital Nomad (DiNo) Summit and Arts Festival at Siargao Island recently.
A multi-sectoral initiative, the Philippine Digital Nomad Summit 2023 aims to convene all professionals embracing the digital nomadism lifestyle to share their narratives and experiences. DICT and its industry partners recognized the growing number of DiNos coming into the country, specifically on the island of Siargao, and acknowledged the impact it brings to the country’s local creative industry, businesses, tourism, and economy.
In his keynote address, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy reaffirmed this newfound opportunity and echoed the agency’s significant role in creating a more conducive and robust environment for this emerging workforce.
“The DICT will be your prime advocate in building this sunrise industry through the implementation of various programs and partnerships with relevant stakeholders. We will create an environment that can attract digital nomads and make the Philippines conducive to their needs and aspirations,” Secretary Uy said.
Meanwhile, DICT Undersecretary for ICT Industry Development Jocelle Batapa-Sigue encouraged the public sector to take action, seize this opportune moment, and elevate the industry to its fullest potential.
“Before we can catch these waves of opportunities, we must also do our part in the public sector. To craft impactful programs to empower and upskill our workforce, push for systemic changes in our institutions, consult stakeholders, and ensure multi-sectoral collaboration,” Undersecretary Batapa-Sigue said.
This recognition was further expressed through the induction of SURF Information and Technology (I.T.) Officers who were tasked to be trailblazers in sustaining the growth of ICT-enabled industries and rolling out programs that can lead to the generation of more jobs in Siargao.
A Summit Resolution was also signed by all participants, representing a diverse community of digital nomads, industry and community leaders, policymakers, innovators, professionals, students, and other stakeholders, which served as a significant highlight of the program. The resolution provides the participants’ shared commitment to create an enabling environment for digital nomads while promoting sustainable and responsible practices.
(PHOTO CREDIT: DICT website)