USTP empowers women entrepreneurs through WIFI DX Training
By Randulf C. Doria, STRATCOMM, USTP System
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), in partnership with the Asian and Pacific Training Centre for Information and Communication Technology for Development (APCICT) and in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), successfully conducted the “Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Southern Philippines through Digital Transformation: Women ICT Frontier Initiative (WIFI DX) Training” from June 1–4, 2026, at Hamersons Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.
The four-day training brought together women entrepreneurs to strengthen their digital competencies, improve their business capabilities, and equip them with practical tools and strategies needed to prosper in an increasingly digital business environment.
Through a series of lectures, workshops, hands-on activities, and mentoring sessions, participants obtained valuable knowledge on innovation, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, data analytics, business continuity planning, and strategic business development.
WIFI DX participants, USTP officials, APCICT WIFI DX trainers, and partner representatives during the opening of the event.
Strengthening Partnerships for Women’s Digital Empowerment
A significant highlight of the opening program was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between USTP and APCICT, renewing their commitment to the continued implementation of the WIFI DX Training and the advancement of digital transformation initiatives for women entrepreneurs.
Throughout the training, participants participated in a diverse range of learning sessions facilitated by APCICT WIFI DX trainers Ms. Irene Boey, Ms. Mayette Macapagal, and Mr. YS Koh.
Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, USTP System President (Left), and Mr. Robert De Jesus, Program Manager of APCICT WIFI DX (Right),
during the signing of the MOA between USTP and APCICT.
Building Digital Skills for Business Growth
One of the key sessions introduced participants to various e-commerce business models and emphasized the importance of market research, product validation, and opportunity identification within the digital marketplace. Hands-on activities enabled participants to utilize these concepts and develop practical skills relevant to online entrepreneurship.
Another major component of the training focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in business operations. Participants were introduced to AI concepts, emerging technologies, and practical tools that can support sales, marketing, customer engagement, and overall business productivity. Through guided exercises, participants gained firsthand experience in utilizing AI-powered solutions to improve operational efficiency and enhance business performance
The training also highlighted the importance of data analytics in entrepreneurship. Discussions explored how different types of business data can be collected, analyzed, and utilized to support well-informed decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and identify growth opportunities. Interactive activities demonstrated how data can be transformed into actionable insights that support strategic business planning.
Recognizing the significance of preparedness and resilience, the training featured a session on Business Continuity Planning (BCP). Discussions focused on risk assessment, disaster preparedness, risk reduction strategies, recovery planning, and the gendered impacts of disasters on entrepreneurs. Participants learned how proactive planning can help businesses manage disruptions, protect key operations, and sustain long-term growth despite unanticipated challenges.
Ms. Mayette Macapagal, WIFI DX Trainer
Ms. Irene Boey, WIFI DX Trainer
Mr. YS Koh, WIFI DX Trainer
Action Planning and Mentorship
The training culminated in an action planning session, during which participants presented their businesses and outlined plans for growth and digital transformation.
The presentations provided an opportunity for entrepreneurs to receive constructive feedback and recommendations from APCICT trainers, representatives from the USTP Entrepreneurship Service Unit (ESU), and the City Government of Cagayan de Oro. The mentoring session enabled participants to refine their business strategies, explore potential partnerships, and identify support mechanisms available to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
WIFI DX participants during the culmination ceremony and certificate awarding,
marking the successful completion of the four-day training.
Advancing Digital Inclusion and Entrepreneurship
The WIFI DX Training promotes digital inclusion, innovation, and entrepreneurship by equipping women with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to navigate the digital economy.
This initiative reinforces the shared commitment of USTP, APCICT, DTI, and DICT to empowering women entrepreneurs, strengthening local enterprises, and fostering sustainable economic development in Southern Philippines.
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