Philippine internet service provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has rolled out a cyber protection and livelihood training program for 30 disenfranchised mothers and their children in Bamban, Tarlac.
The initiative was held in partnership with the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) under its Pagsasarili Program.
The session aimed to equip participants with basic skills to protect themselves from online scams, while also introducing opportunities to supplement household income through Converge’s Surf2Sawa prepaid fiber offering.
With cybercrime on the rise, particularly targeting vulnerable sectors, Converge emphasized the importance of digital literacy and online safety.
Community Relations Manager Jennifer Ambanta-Realubit said the program was specially tailored for mothers in recognition of May as Mother’s Month, underscoring the need to protect families from online fraud.
CDC Capacity Building Officer Armin Rivera noted that low-income mothers are often disproportionately affected by scams, particularly those promising financial gains. He praised the partnership for raising awareness and fostering critical thinking about digital risks.
Scam Watch Pilipinas Co-Founder Jocel de Guzman conducted an educational session on the dangers of phishing and online fraud, highlighting common schemes such as fake job offers, investment scams, online loan frauds, and romance scams.
He advised the participants to verify identities and offers before engaging online, especially when money or personal information is at stake.
In addition to cyber safety education, Converge provided a livelihood component. Mothers were introduced to small-scale entrepreneurship opportunities by selling Converge’s prepaid fiber services.
Jericho Mamangun from Converge’s MSP JK2L2 team facilitated the session, demonstrating how Surf2Sawa could be a viable income stream for interested participants.
Converge and CDC have maintained a longstanding partnership in uplifting marginalized communities through digital empowerment initiatives.
Past programs have included community health missions and support for online education among Aeta children, where Converge has provided internet connectivity and learning tablets.
The initiative is part of Converge’s broader commitment to inclusive digital access and socioeconomic upliftment through technology.
Business News Asia