From education to governance, health, business, and social interaction, digital transformation has become an indispensable component of development. For Laoag City to remain competitive and future-ready, it must actively create platforms that foster technological awareness, innovation, and skills development among its citizens. The Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028 emphasizes digitalizat
ion as a cross-cutting strategy to accelerate growth, improve government efficiency, and prepare the workforce for emerging industries. Likewise, Laoag City’s vision of becoming a Smart City underscores the importance of ICT in enhancing local governance, fast service delivery, and community development, all under the Alisto, Asenso, Progreso program. In this light, the Laoag Tech Summit 2025—a pioneering two-day technology event organized by the ICTO, in partnership with Double K Computers of Laoag City—seeks to serve as both a community learning hub and a youth development platform. It integrates two major components: a Technology Expo to promote innovations and digital awareness, and Educational Competitions to nurture ICT skills and creativity among elementary and high school students. The event is also designed to:
• Support national and local priorities by aligning with the government’s thrust to build digital-ready communities and improve ICT competencies.
• Strengthen public-private partnerships by collaborating with local companies, organizations and other IT stakeholders to bring knowledge, tools, and resources closer to the people.
• Empower the youth by giving them opportunities to learn, compete, and excel in ICT-related fields, preparing them for future careers and lifelong learning.
• Lay the groundwork for a Smart City culture in Laoag where technology is seen not just as a tool, but as a driver of inclusive growth and better quality of life. By hosting this event, Laoag City will not only showcase its commitment to innovation but will also position itself as a leader in Ilocos Norte in championing ICT education, digital inclusion, and smart governance. To promote awareness and appreciation of emerging ICT tools, products, and innovations.
2. To provide a platform for students to showcase their ICT knowledge, creativity, and technical skills.
3. To strengthen linkages between the city government, private institutions, IT companies, and the education sector.
4. To encourage early interest in ICT careers among elementary and high school students.
5. To contribute to the city’s long-term smart city vision through community involvement in digital transformation. III. GOALS AND BENEFITS
For the Technology Expo:
1. Empower citizens through exposure to the latest IT trends and innovations.
2. Provide learning opportunities through tutorials, tips, and hands-on product demonstrations.
3. Strengthen collaboration with local IT partners and other agencies.
4. Inspire entrepreneurs and professionals to adopt digital tools for efficiency and growth. For the Educational Competitions:
1. Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students.
2. Encourage schools to integrate ICT-related activities into their programs.
3. Recognize and reward young talents in ICT.
4. Motivate students to pursue ICT-related careers, supporting the city’s future workforce. IV. PROGRAM COMPONENTS
Part I – Technology Expo
The Technology Expo will be the centerpiece of the first day of the Laoag Tech Summit 2025. Organized in partnership with Double K Computers, it will bring together IT companies, innovators, professionals, and other partners to showcase the latest technologies and innovations. This component is designed not only as an exhibition of products but also as an interactive learning platform for the public. Key Activities:
• Exhibit Booths and Displays – featuring gadgets, software, digital services, and smart solutions from leading IT companies.
• Product Demonstrations – hands-on sessions on how technologies function and their practical applications performed by various IT experts.
• Tutorials and Skills Sharing – mini-workshops on topics such as digital tools, cybersecurity, graphic design, and AI.
• Technology Talks – discussions with industry professionals on IT trends and career opportunities. Part II – Educational Competitions
This component will highlight and develop the ICT skills of Laoag City’s youth. It consists of three major contests designed to test knowledge, creativity, and technical skills. Contest Categories:
• IT Quiz Bee – testing ICT knowledge of elementary and high school students. Elementary and High School Students
• Infographic Design Contest – encouraging creativity in digital design and communication. Elementary and High School Students
• Computer Assembly – showcasing technical problem-solving abilities. High School Students
V. CONCLUSION
The Laoag Tech Summit 2025, organized by the ICTO in partnership with Double K Computers of Laoag City, will mark a milestone in the city’s digital transformation efforts. It will promote ICT awareness, empower the next generation, and foster collaboration with private sector partners, while supporting Laoag City’s Smart City vision. With the City Government’s support, this initiative will bring long-term benefits to education, governance, and community development.
