Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) Basilan head Michael Jolo facilitated the assembly with DICT-ICT Industry Development Bureau project development officer Al-Rhaji Otoalih explaining the merits of the ICT Council by way of DICT support. PDO Otoalih underscored how the ICT Council plays a critical role in pushing for the IT agenda of the LGU as a policy-making body on ICT matters.

For his part, Councilor Khaleedsher Asarul who is the chair of the SP committee on information, communication, and public utilities expressed his unwavering support for such initiative, vowing to be a ready partner in the halls of the Sangguniang Panlungsod. Meanwhile, IT Officer Sabdulla emphasized how the ICT Council complements with the push of the City Government to explore platforms and opportunities to help usher the city into a digital economy that rewards all Isabeleños. This was seconded by DICT IT Officer Jolo who introduced attendees who were also previous participants of DICT-capacity development trainings on e-commerce and freelancing, among others.

The meeting was also attended by representatives from various national government agencies like TESDA, DOLE, and DILG. Also ably represented was ISAWAD and there were also members of the academe and student organizations.

The Isabela City ICT Council have the following as officers:

Chair – Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman

President – Zulfikar Sabdulla

Vice President (Internal) – Councilor Khaledsheer Asarul

Vice President (External) – Galilan Gerangaya

Secretary – Marion Guerrero

Treasurer – Mary Jane Arnado

First assembled in 2017, the Isabela City ICT Council aims to assist the City of Isabela in the upcoming Regional ICT Summit and Exhibitions (RISE) 2023 and the constitution of the Isabela City Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team (CERT). (Words by M. Guerrero/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)