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TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has launched the second phase of its digital literacy training program, aimed at strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region. The initiative is in partnership with Isabela State University (ISU) and the Business Intelligence Research and Development Center (BIRDC). The project SETUP Adopters Digital Literacy Skills and Consultancy Towards the Development of SMARTER MSMEs for a Smarter Cagayan Valley is part of DOSTs Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), which seeks to accelerate the digital transformation of local businesses to enhance competitiveness and resilience. The initiative follows the SMARTER MSMEs framework, which stands for Sustainable, Market-oriented, Agile, Resilient, Technology-empowered, Entrepreneurial, and Resource-efficient. Betchie Aguinaldo of ISU and BIRDC said the participants received knowledge on advanced digital topics, including the use of digital tools, innovation strategies, data management, cybersecurity, and e-commerce platforms. The program also featured one-on-one consultancy sessions tailored to each businesss digital needs. This initiative is more than just a training program. It is a step forward in realizing our shared vision of a Smarter Cagayan Valley. Empowered entrepreneurs will drive inclusive growth, sustainability, and innovation, said Aguinaldo. Aileen C. Gonzales, DOSTs training focal person, emphasized the agencys ongoing commitment to MSME development. Empowering MSMEs with digital knowledge and tools is not just about keeping up with technology--its about ensuring long-term competitiveness and resilience in an increasingly digital world, she said. ISU and BIRDC provided technical support and served as key resource partners, further reinforcing the regions push toward inclusive and sustainable economic development. Gonzales added that the initiative marks another step toward DOST Region 02s vision of a digitally enabled and innovation-driven Cagayan Valley. (OTB/PIA Region 2 with reports from DOST 2)
