CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Local governments in Northern Mindanao and Lanao del Sur are advancing digital communication and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance public information and service delivery. On Wednesday, Lanao del Sur launched its first Information and Communication Summit, designed to empower local government unit (LGU) communicators, particularly those at the barangay level, to better report on disaster preparedness, government programs, and response efforts. Provincial Information Officer Salma Jayne Alonto Tamano emphasized that clear communication fosters transparency and strengthens public trust in government initiatives. "They both help promote transparency and ensure the public that government is doing their very best to help improve their lives," she said. Meanwhile, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has completed the installation of free Wi-Fi in all Misamis Oriental LGUs, with plans to expand the Free Wi-Fi for All program across the regio n. DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy highlighted that this initiative includes upgrades to digital transformation centers, beginning in Gingoog City, as part of a broader goal of creating a digitally connected Philippines. "This is a crucial strive towards our collective vision of 'Bayang Digital ang Bagong Pilipinas,'" Uy said. In a separate development, Cagayan de Oro launched the Relevant Industry Skills Employment (RISE) initiative in partnership with ABCCA, Meldcx, and Skunk Works to offer AI and drone technology training for local scholars. The city aims to recruit 100 students for a three-month AI program, which city education officer Richel Petalcurin said reflects a commitment to equipping underprivileged youth with skills for high-demand tech careers. Source: Philippines News Agency