As part of the observance of the 2023 National Women’s Month, the Department of Science and Technology in the Visayas composed of DOST VI, VII and VIII organized the 2023 Online Visayas Cluster Forum: Empowering MSME’s through Digital Transformation last March 24, 2023.

The forum was hosted by Vince Carreon and Elle Senalista, both personnel from DOST VI. Engr. Rowen Gelonga, Regional Director from the same regional office, delivered his welcome address through Ms. Keithlyn Sarah Bernardino. He said, ‘through the use of Science and Technology, we can empower our businesses and entrepreneurs to embrace digital transformation to contribute in growth and development in our economy.’ Dr. Diana Ignacio, on the other hand, conveyed an inspiring message about the vulnerable situation of women micro entrepreneurs who are deprived of access to digital transformation. She further added that science, technology, and innovation play a critical role in promoting gender equality.

Three experts from different regions of the Visayas were invited to speak on specific issues relevant to women entrepreneurs. Mr. Dale Rae Panuncia, discussed about the Cybersecurity awareness, towards gender equality. He concluded that, ‘Cybersecurity is not an individual responsibility, but rather a collective on’. It was followed by Ms. Mikaela Antonette Canaman who tackled about Hitting Social Media targets through effective Campaigns. And lastly, Mr. Janrie Lacsamana from Eastern Visayas, explained the different digital marketing services for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Myrel Siason from DOST VII presented the certificates for the speakers on behalf of Engr. Jesus F. Zamora, Jr, the regional director of DOST VII. Engr. Ernesto M. Granada, the Regional Director of Region VIII delivered the closing message by emphasizing that, ‘digital transformation is likewise an ongoing holistic and comprehensive process of changing the mindset, attitudes, and cultures of enterprise or an organization’. (By: Fil Rose Ocenar and Karina Mendez, Work Immersion Trainee from Calbiga National High School)