BingoPlus Foundation champions digital empowerment for PWDs through transformative partnership with DSWD

The BingoPlus Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), officially handed over the PLUS Center for Technology and Livelihood to the Area Vocational Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II in Brgy. Labangon, Cebu City. This marked a significant step toward promoting inclusivity and digital empowerment. An important turning point in the Foundation’s continuous work to improve communities and provide chances for a better, more inclusive future for all Filipinos is this program.

The BingoPlus Foundation donated ₱1.5 million worth of cutting-edge equipment to the PLUS Center for Technology and Livelihood as part of the FutureSmart Program. The equipment included 20 desktop computers for the center’s vocational training rooms and knowledge library, as well as an industrial large-format tarpaulin printer and heat press machine for the Commercial Arts room. The purpose of these tools is to help AVRC II trainees—especially individuals with disabilities (PWDs) and those pursuing social rehabilitation—develop their creative potential and digital skills.

The significance of this partnership was underlined by Celeste Jovenir, Vice President for Investor Relations at DigiPlus and COO of the BingoPlus Foundation: “As we come together today to turn over the PLUS Centers for Technology and Livelihood to the DSWD, we are not just handing over equipment; we are handing over opportunities that can change the course of many lives.” Our collaboration is based on a common goal of creating a more diverse society in which every person has the opportunity to prosper in the digital economy, regardless of aptitude.”

The equipment that was donated helps the AVRC meet its needs, especially in terms of improving its ability to provide vocational training in graphic design, printing, and digital literacy—skills that are essential for being employable in the modern digital economy. For instance, the heat press machine and tarpaulin printer give students enrolled in the Commercial Arts track the means to hone their abilities in preparation for future employment in the creative industries. With desktop PCs outfitted with speech-to-text and audio software, PWD clients of AVRC may now easily acquire both basic and advanced IT skills. Course graduates can keep using the tools to get started on job applications, find remote jobs, or even establish their own small enterprises.

“Our students will find this equipment incredibly beneficial as they seek jobs in the creative industries or consider starting their own firms,” said Dr. Jera D. Armendarez of AVRC II in her expression of thanks. This alliance serves as evidence of how well public-private partnerships may bring about significant change.”

A commitment to social impact and resilient futures

As DigiPlus Interactive Corp.’s social development division, the BingoPlus Foundation is dedicated to strengthening communities via clever collaborations and ground-breaking initiatives. The DSWD’s “Adopt-A-Center” project, which falls under the purview of its Partnerships and Building Resource Mobilization Office, is in line with the Foundation’s FutureSmart E-Plus Center Program. Through collaborative efforts, the two organizations are improving PWDs’ access to skills development programs, allowing them to reach their maximum potential and become more independent.

“With this new equipment, we are not only boosting our ability to support our clients, but we are also providing new routes for them to flourish in a rapidly growing digital environment,” said Shalaine Marie S. Lucero, Regional Director of DSWD 7 highlighting the significance of this relationship. We are appreciative of the BingoPlus Foundation’s assistance and mutual dedication to our goal.”

Expanding horizons and digital futures

Among the numerous projects that make up the BingoPlus Foundation’s extensive portfolio of social responsibility activities is the PLUS Center for Technology and Livelihood. The Foundation has been at the forefront of offering complete help to communities in need, from disaster relief to educational scholarships. The Foundation has donated millions more to a variety of causes, including digital literacy and vocational training, and allocated P10 million to assist families impacted by Super Typhoon Carina.

“Our goal is to break down barriers and open new career paths for PWDs,” added Jovenir. “These tools are not just machines; they are gateways to independence, creativity, and self-sufficiency.”