Motherboard Editorial Write-up

“The Role of ICT: Promoting Socio-Economic and Cultural Development in

Mindanao.”

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has become an essential element in making
governments’ fit for the 21st century; providing trustworthy and qualitative services that are oriented to
the needs of citizens and businesses. So, when you think about it, it’s not really rocket science to equate
that along with the boost of the advent of technology comes the parallel idea that access to ICT is
necessary for the spontaneous development of underprivileged countries such as India, Africa, South
America, and here in the Philippines - just to name a few.

It is no doubt that we are already experiencing the so-called technological revolution.

Specifically, we are in the age of enterprise mobility where we are presented with opportunities to
engage in enterprise at our convenience despite the once known time and spatial hindrances.

Businesses flourish and are more productive once they gain access to IC technologies. In fact, E-
agriculture, which is an emerging field focusing on the enhancement of agricultural and rural
development through improved information and communication processes is becoming increasingly
important. ICT in agriculture can play a significant role in maintaining properties of information as it
consists of three main technologies: Computer Technology, Communication Technology and Information
Management Technology. These technologies increase productivity which in turn benefits businesses
and consumers alike, strengthening a country’s economic standing in the international arena.

This November, as we celebrate the 8th Iligan City Computing Fair (ICCF) here in Iligan City, we
are presented with the same opportunity to expand our socio-economic and even cultural resources.
Events such as the ICCF and other notable ICT forums provide an avenue for exchanging trade skills,
expanding our knowledge base of common and advanced practices, and updating ourselves with the
latest trends in the field of ICT for the betterment of society.

Hopefully, with this in mind, all sectors of society not only from government organizations but
also from the academe, business, and even non-government continue to support and promote
endeavors such as the promotion and expansion of ICT in the country. Who knows, maybe one day, we
might even be able to compete with top players in the field of ICT such as Japan, China and America. :)