UPOU-FMDS and PESO Laguna Conducted a Courtesy Visit with the Local Government Unit of Los Baños, Laguna for Barangay Digital Transformation Project

The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), in partnership with Laguna Public Employment Services Office (PESO Laguna), recently conducted a courtesy visit to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Los Baños, Laguna on 16 February 2024 in relation to the public service initiative called “Barangay Digital Transformation”. Led by UPOU-FMDS Dean Dr. Joane V. Serrano, the team, which included Ms. Mary Jane T. Banasihan-Corcuera, Manager of the PESO Laguna, Ms. Dona Lyn Piamonte, FMDS Linkages Staff, and Mr. Rodson Del Mundo, Provincial PESO Staff, visited Los Baños Municipal Administrator Dr. Roberto Rañola, Jr. and LGU staff. The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss the implementation of the project in Barangay Maahas and to seek the local government’s support for its successful execution. 

During the meeting, the group explored various aspects of collaboration, including the availability and development of open educational resources for the Sanggunian Kabataan and the potential creation of tailored courses for the municipality’s youth.

Following the initial meeting, on February 26, 2024, the Barangay Maahas local chief executive, Hon. Ferdinand Punzalan Vargas, along with barangay officials, warmly welcomed the UPOU and PESO Laguna team. Dean Serrano presented detailed information about the project, which was met with enthusiasm and approval from Hon. Vargas. He expressed full support for the project and committed to collaborating closely with the team to ensure its success. The meeting was again attended by Ms. Corcuera and Mr. Del Mundo from the PESO Laguna and Ms. Piamonte. Colleagues from UPOU including Asst. Prof. Lorena Jean Saludadez and Ms. Janelle Ebron also attended the meeting.

The Barangay Digital Transformation project represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering communities through education and technology. With the support of the LGU and the active involvement of barangay officials, this initiative is poised to make a positive impact on the residents of Barangay Maahas and serve as a model for digital transformation in other communities.