The program of activities for the workshop was carefully structured to ensure maximum engagement and productivity. Mr. Edwin G. Mendoza, Provincial Head of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Tarlac Provincial Office delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the workshop in the context of Tarlac City's journey towards becoming a Digital City. Hon. Maria Cristina Cuello Angeles, Mayor of Tarlac City, delivered a video message of support, underscoring the city's commitment to embracing technology for progress.
Acknowledgment of the participants, including representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU), highlighted the diverse group of individuals and organizations present at the workshop.
The heart of the event was the Digital Cities Program Presentation by the ICT Industry Development Bureau of DICT Region 3. This presentation shed light on the program's objectives and potential impact on Tarlac City's digital landscape.
Dr. Marlon V. Gamido from Tarlac State University took the reins as the workshop facilitator for the SWOT and Gap Analysis sessions. These critical exercises aimed to identify the city's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the four (4) areas of the Digital Cities: talents, infrastructure, cost of doing business, and business environment. Participants engaged in productive discussions and collaborative problem-solving, fostering a holistic understanding of Tarlac City's ecosystem. The SWOT and Gap Analysis sessions ensured that every aspect was thoroughly examined and assessed. Representatives from each category—Talent, Infrastructure and Cost, and Business Environment—presented their findings from the SWOT and Gap Analysis sessions. These presentations laid the foundation for the subsequent development of strategic and implementation plans. Participants also focused on crafting the Implementation Plan, guided by Dr. Marlon V. Gamido's expertise. The sessions were marked by intensive brainstorming sessions, group discussions, and the formulation of concrete action plans designed to propel Tarlac City into a digital hub.
The workshop concluded with representatives from each category presented their strategic and implementation plans. The plans encompassed a range of initiatives, from digital skills development to infrastructure enhancement and business environment improvements.
Dr. Marlon V. Gamido wrapped up the event by summarizing key takeaways and highlighting the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders to realize the city's digital vision.
The workshop's closing remarks were delivered by a member of the Tarlac ICT Council, who expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the commitment to turning Tarlac City into a thriving digital city.
The Tarlac City SWOT, Gap Analysis, and Implementation Plan Workshop provided a platform for constructive dialogue, collaboration, and strategic planning. It is expected that the insights and plans developed during this event will serve as inputs to the roadmap for Tarlac City's digital transformation, positioning it as one of the frontrunners in the digital landscape of the Philippines.
