Ilocos norte: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has deployed digital learning technology to remote schools in Ilocos Norte, expanding access to quality education through innovative tools designed to support teaching and learning in geographically isolated communities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Valerie Gabriana Talamayan, designated information officer of DepEd Schools Division of Ilocos Norte, confirmed this on Thursday as DepEd Ilocos Norte, in collaboration with local government units of participating schools and the DOST-Advance Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), facilitated the deployment and installation of equipment to boost digital learning.

The schools covered under the so-called 'Resilient Education Information Infrastructure for the New Normal' were the primary schools of Agaga in Burgos and Malaggao and Bucarot in Adams town. The initiative provides participating schools with digital learning devices, educational content, and technology-based resources that can be used by teachers and students to enhance classroom instruction.

The program aims to bridge the digital divide by ensuring that learners in underserved areas such as in Barangay Agaga in Burgos and Sitio Bucarot, a far-flung mountainous area and a long time disputed territory between Adams, Ilocos Norte and Calansan, Apayao have greater access to modern educational materials despite connectivity and infrastructure challenges. 'There is no signal in Agaga, so through LocalFi, learners and teachers of Agaga Elementary School will already have internet access,' Talamayan said.

On Thursday, the team visited Adams for the installation of Rural Casting for its two schools - Malaggao and Bucarot. Philip Martinez, senior science research specialist and project leader of the DOST-ASTI team, said the deployment reflects the agency's commitment to using science, technology, and innovation to improve education outcomes and promote inclusive learning opportunities.

The digital learning technology is expected to help strengthen students' literacy, numeracy, and digital skills while supporting teachers with interactive instructional resources. The participating local government units also agreed to cover the system's maintenance and subscription starting next year after the installation.

Aside from making lessons more engaging and providing learners with access to learning materials that were previously difficult to obtain, the program also improves disaster resilience of the community through appropriate technologies.