By Raffy Ayeng
Proving that public-private partnerships can move mountains, Concentrix, the nation鈥檚 largest private employer and a global technology and services leader, has kicked off the first batch of computer donations under its 鈥淕adget for Goods鈥 project in the MIMAROPA region. The initiative is in partnership with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). The 鈥淕adget for Goods鈥 initiative aims to provide young learners with the tools necessary to excel in an increasingly tech-driven world. As part of its ongoing commitment to community-building and innovation, Concentrix Philippines recognizes that access to technology plays a critical role in shaping the future. 鈥淏y equipping students with the necessary equipment, 鈥楪adgets for Good鈥 enables them to engage more fully in their education and ensures that they are prepared to meet the demands of the digital era,鈥 said Concentrix Philippines Vice President for Client Success Tonichi Parekh. The ceremonial turnover held on 30 June at the Concentrix TERA Tower in Bridgetowne, Quezon City, was witnessed by PEZA Deputy Director General for Operations Vivian Santos, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, DepEd Representative Dr. Melanie Mendoza, and other private sector leaders. The more than 500 donated computers will be distributed to students and teachers in the provinces of Marinduque, Calapan, and Romblon. DDG Santos lauded the initiative as a concrete step toward bridging the digital divide, particularly in the countryside, contributing to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 鈥淭his project opens opportunities for real access for our people 鈥 access to learning, to digital tools that level the playing field, and to a future where every child, whether from remote islands or urban centers, can have a fair and fighting chance to thrive in a world shaped by technology,鈥 she emphasized. In support of the national agenda to get all Filipinos connected and to advance the country鈥檚 digital transformation, the 鈥淕adget for Goods鈥 initiative strongly aligns with PEZA鈥檚 thrust to develop economic zones in the countryside for inclusive and sustainable development. By equipping regional learning centers with digital tools, the initiative significantly empowers communities, develops future-ready talent, and strengthens the link between innovation, education, and regional progress.