Makati City: The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (AFI) have partnered to provide digital skills training for women residing in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) for this initiative was signed at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City, witnessed by officials from OPAPRU, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), AFI, and representatives from the Bangsamoro government, UN Women, and Connected Women. The MOU aims to equip women with essential skills in artificial intelligence and data annotation through the Elevate AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation) program.
OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. emphasized that investing in women contributes to peace. He expressed that by offering digital and technology-based training and income-generating opportunities, the project is expected to enhance household incomes, promote women's leadership, contribute to community stability, and support the ongoing peace processes in the country. The initiative will be rolled out in seven priority regions, including the Bangsamoro and Cordillera regions, strategically chosen for their vulnerable populations and active peacebuilding efforts.
Aboitiz Foundation president Ana Margarita Hontiveros-Malvar explained that the Elevate AIDA program allows women to access remote job opportunities, freelancing, and digital entrepreneurship without leaving their homes. She described the signing as a significant step towards a shared dream with Connected Women, PCW, UN Women, and OPAPRU, where every woman has the opportunity to learn, grow, and shape her future. The project aims to benefit 300,000 women nationwide over the next three years, focusing on transformation beyond just upskilling and technology.
PCW chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla highlighted the milestones in advancing gender equality through technology and the digital space, noting that the Philippines is the only country with two legislated Gender and Development (GAD) budgets, ensuring funds are allocated for the benefit of Filipino women. The GAD budget is supported by a strong accountability mechanism.
