14 Young Girls Under DSWD Care Enroll in Digital Technology Program
July 18, 2025 | Manila, Philippines
In a significant move to empower young individuals under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), IBM Philippines and Caritas Philippines officially launched the IBM SkillsBuild program on Friday, July 18, at the UP-Ayala Land TechnoHub in Diliman, Quezon City. Fourteen young girls from the DSWD’s residential facilities are the first participants in this pioneering digital technology training initiative designed to open new educational and career pathways.
A New Pathway for Marginalized Youth
Among the 14 participants is "Ice Bear," a 17-year-old resident of the DSWD shelter in Marillac Hills, Mandaluyong City. Since arriving at the facility in 2022, Ice Bear has devoted her time to reading, education, and learning practical skills such as baking and dressmaking. Now, she has a new opportunity to move closer to her dream of becoming an IT specialist.
“I’m excited to learn about cybersecurity, programming, and other digital technologies,” Ice Bear shared in an interview. “This program is like a stepping stone for me. I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at San Beda University–Alabang after graduating next year.”
IBM SkillsBuild Program Details
The SkillsBuild program is a collaborative effort between the DSWD, IBM Philippines, and Caritas Philippines. Over the course of three months, the young girls will undergo comprehensive training in digital technology. The program combines online and face-to-face mentoring sessions, facilitated by IBM volunteer mentors, allowing the participants to learn at their own pace.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the program’s significance during the launch event in Quezon City. “This initiative will bring back hope. When these girls return to their communities next year, they will be better prepared and equipped to face various challenges,” he said.
To create an enabling learning environment, the participants will be relocated from their regular rooms into a dormitory equipped with 24/7 Wi-Fi and provided personal laptops. Secretary Gatchalian explained, “Following IBM’s template, the girls will work at their own pace, gaining skills that will help shape their futures.”
Holistic Support Through Values Formation
In addition to technical training, Caritas Philippines will oversee sessions on values formation and character development, especially for youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, or legal troubles.
Caritas Executive Director Father Carmelo “Tito” Caluag explained, “Our work is not about religion but about serving and supporting all members of the community. Many of these young people come from broken and dark places, so healing is essential.” He further highlighted the use of narrative therapy to help the youth process their pasts and rebuild their stories with hope and positivity.
Volunteer Mentors Inspired to Give Back
IBM volunteer mentors are playing a critical role in the program’s success. One such mentor, Joyson Barrago, 43, an IT Tech Lead at IBM Philippines since 2019, sees his involvement as a meaningful way to give back.
“This is personal to me. Where I am today is because of God’s grace. Volunteering allows me to share my knowledge and life experience with these young girls, and help guide them in building their futures,” Barrago remarked.
Looking Ahead
This pilot cohort of 14 young girls represents a hopeful step toward bridging the digital divide for underprivileged youth under DSWD’s care. By equipping them with in-demand IT skills and supporting their personal growth, the program aims to prepare them for brighter futures in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
For Ice Bear and her peers, the IBM SkillsBuild program is more than an educational opportunity—it’s a beacon of hope and an important milestone in their journey toward achieving their dreams.
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