Ilocos norte: The provincial government of Ilocos Norte is taking significant strides to enhance the educational experience in its public schools by equipping them with cutting-edge technology. This initiative includes the distribution of 356 smartboards and 60 smart TVs to various schools across the province, aimed at fostering a digitally enriched learning environment.

According to Philippines News Agency, public school teachers at both primary and secondary levels recently participated in a specialized training session. Held at the Capitol auditorium extension building, the session focused on the effective use of interactive smartboard technology to boost classroom engagement and increase student participation. Maria Deleilah Felipe Adriatico, head of the Provincial Education Office, confirmed that the smartboards and smart TVs would be distributed along with necessary accessories such as brackets, cables, and external drives.

This technological upgrade is part of the provincial government's broader digitalization efforts, funded through the Special Education Fund (SEF). The initiative is designed to prepare students for a future that increasingly relies on digital competence. Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos emphasized the importance of these tools in elevating educational standards, urging educators to fully utilize and enjoy the new resources.

Aileen Rambaud, principal of Salanap Elementary School in Pinili, expressed optimism about the impact of these visual tools, noting their potential to help teachers gauge class readiness and revisit concepts when necessary. Furthermore, under the 2026 SEF budget, Adriatico announced an allocation of PHP25 million for the installation of weather system detectors in schools. These systems aim to provide real-time monitoring, ensuring the safety of students and staff during severe weather conditions and facilitating localized class cancellations during typhoons.