University of Mindanao and Globe Launch Digital Literacy Training for Senior Citizens in Barangay Maa

Sixty-six senior citizens from Barangay Maa in Davao City recently completed a digital literacy training designed to help them navigate the internet securely, protect their personal data, and recognize online scams. This initiative, a collaboration between the University of Mindanao (UM) and telecommunications provider Globe, seeks to empower the elderly by increasing their digital independence and reducing vulnerability to cyber threats.

The training took place on September 21, 2025, under the Care-A-Van Volunteering Activity with Senior DigiZens at the University of Mindanao. Participants were introduced to fundamental digital skills, including basic smartphone usage, computer literacy, securing online accounts, and avoiding unauthorized transactions.

Aldwin Mahusay of Globe explained that this is the first event focused on senior citizens in Mindanao as part of their broader campaign to promote digital literacy across all age groups. "We started by educating faculty, parents, and students, and now we are reaching out to senior citizens," Mahusay said. He also noted plans to continue supporting Barangay Maa by training local youth leaders, who will subsequently assist seniors in future learning sessions.

Ramcis N. Vilchez, dean of UM's College of Computing Education, highlighted the importance of this program. "This is our first engagement with senior citizens," he stated, emphasizing their heightened exposure to online scams, which have affected countless elderly individuals nationwide.

Senior citizen and Barangay Maa Federation President Mario Gamin expressed gratitude for the initiative, sharing his own experience as a scam victim. "As seniors, we often rely on our grandchildren, but this training empowers us to be more independent," he remarked. Gloria Tantungja, another attendee, shared how learning to operate a desktop computer has significantly improved her confidence in using online tools.

Barangay Maa is home to 52 senior citizen chapters, each with 100 to 200 members, and the Davao City Social Welfare Operations Division reported a total senior population of 170,000 as of 2024.

This joint effort from the University of Mindanao and Globe not only promotes responsible and safe online behavior among the elderly but also strengthens community ties by fostering an inclusive digital environment for all ages.