'Pay IT Forward' initiative brings tech access to Marawi students

In a landmark move to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive education, the war-torn city of Marawi is poised to become the next beneficiary of the "Pay IT Forward: A Digital Transformation Advocacy," a joint effort by public and private institutions to empower students through technology.

- By MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

Spearheaded by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), RepublicAsia, iACADEMY, GMA Kapuso Foundation, and Sparkle GMA Artist Center, the initiative aims to provide digital tools and reliable internet access to underserved schools across the country.

The expansion to Marawi City was officially sealed on April 23 with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, RepublicAsia Founder Bran F. Reluao and GMA Network SVP Atty. Anneth Gozon-Valdez.

"Why Marawi?" asked Reluao. "Because digital access remains a real challenge in the area."

He emphasized that while rebuilding infrastructure is essential, empowering the youth with access to modern education tools is equally critical.