Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), officers and members led by President Edward Du, participated in the RISE 7.2 Conference with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) led by Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue and Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Myles Nicolas Bejar.
NOCCI Joins DICT-Led RISE 7.2 Conference to Foster ICT Growth in Negros Oriental
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), led by President Edward Du, actively participated in the RISE 7.2 Conference organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). The event, held in partnership with the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental, featured prominent speakers including DICT Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue and Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Myles Nicolas Bejar.
The RISE 7.2 Conference, an initiative aimed at promoting Regional ICT and Startup Ecosystem development, brought together key stakeholders from the government, business, and technology sectors. The goal was to foster innovation, accelerate digital transformation, and bolster economic resilience across Negros Oriental and neighboring regions.
Strengthening ICT Resilience and Innovation
Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue opened the conference by emphasizing the critical role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in driving economic growth, especially in the face of global challenges.
“RISE 7.2 is a platform to harness the power of ICT in building resilient communities and empowering local businesses to thrive in a digitally connected world,” Batapa Sigue stated.
She underscored the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to create sustainable digital ecosystems that can support startups, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and large-scale industries.
NOCCI’s Commitment to Digital Transformation
NOCCI President Edward Du reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to leveraging technology as a tool for regional development. He highlighted the chamber’s ongoing initiatives to support businesses in adapting to the digital age and enhancing their competitiveness.
“NOCCI recognizes the transformative power of ICT in shaping the future of Negros Oriental. By participating in the RISE 7.2 Conference, we aim to align our strategies with DICT’s vision for a digitally inclusive Philippines,” Du said.
Du also discussed the importance of building a strong ICT infrastructure in Negros Oriental, which would not only attract investments but also enable local businesses to expand their reach to global markets.
Promoting Startup Ecosystems
One of the key topics of the conference was the development of a vibrant startup ecosystem in the region. Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Myles Nicolas Bejar emphasized the importance of creating policies and programs that support startups and encourage innovation.
“Startups are the lifeblood of economic growth in the digital era. By nurturing entrepreneurial talent and providing access to resources, we can establish Negros Oriental as a hub for innovation and creativity,” Bejar said.
Bejar also shared the provincial government’s plans to collaborate with DICT and NOCCI in implementing programs that provide mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to technology for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Digital Empowerment for MSMEs
The conference highlighted the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in driving economic growth. Discussions focused on how ICT can empower MSMEs to optimize their operations, enhance customer experiences, and compete in a technology-driven marketplace.
Undersecretary Batapa Sigue presented DICT’s initiatives to support MSMEs, including training programs, access to digital tools, and incentives for tech adoption.
“By equipping MSMEs with the necessary skills and technology, we can ensure that they remain resilient and competitive in an ever-evolving digital landscape,” Batapa Sigue explained.
Fostering Collaboration Between Sectors
The RISE 7.2 Conference also served as a platform for collaboration between various sectors. NOCCI, DICT, and the provincial government discussed potential partnerships in areas such as cybersecurity, e-governance, and digital skills development.
President Du expressed NOCCI’s readiness to collaborate with DICT and local government units to implement ICT initiatives that benefit businesses and communities.
“Collaboration is the key to driving meaningful change. NOCCI is committed to working hand-in-hand with DICT and the provincial government to achieve our shared vision of a digitally empowered Negros Oriental,” Du stated.
Looking Ahead
The conference concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to take an active role in fostering innovation and embracing digital transformation. DICT emphasized its commitment to providing the necessary support and resources to make ICT accessible and beneficial for all.
President Edward Du expressed optimism about the future of ICT in Negros Oriental, noting that the discussions and partnerships formed during the RISE 7.2 Conference would pave the way for significant advancements in the region.
“The insights and collaborations from this event will undoubtedly accelerate the progress of Negros Oriental in becoming a leader in digital innovation. NOCCI is proud to be part of this journey,” Du said.
The RISE 7.2 Conference demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving ICT innovation and economic resilience. With the active participation of NOCCI, DICT, and the provincial government, the event laid the groundwork for a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Negros Oriental.
As the region embraces the opportunities presented by digital transformation, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that technology becomes a catalyst for inclusive growth and development.
