SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga, in partnership with the municipal government of Del Carmen, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, conducted a series of cybersecurity and cyber-hygiene awareness sessions for 1,733 students from various secondary and elementary schools of the town. The activity, held on June 9-11, formed part of the DICT’s double celebration for its 10th year anniversary and the observance of National ICT Month, strengthening its commitment to build a safer, more secure, and digitally empowered Philippines. On June 9, DICT Caraga held sessions for 1,074 participants from Del Carmen National High School and the elementary schools of Katipunan, Esperanza, Cancohoy, Bagacay, and Jamoyaon at the Del Carmen and Katipunan covered courts. It was followed by a campaign on June 10 that engaged the 390 participants from Oguing National Memorial National High School, Sayak Elementary School, Mahayahay Elementary School, Anitapolo Elementary School, Bitoon Elementary School, and Cabugao Elementary School. Sessions were held at the Oguing NHS Covered Court and the Cabugao Covered Court. On June 11, DICT Caraga directly served 269 more learners from Mariano Matugas Memorial National High School, Tuboran Elementary School, Quezon Elementary School, Numancia Central Elementary School, and Mabuhay Primary School. Sessions took place at the MMMNHS and NCES Covered Courts. DICT Caraga officials said that during awareness sessions, participants learned about the Internet and its consequences. The sessions highlighted both opportunities and risks in today’s digital environment. Students also practiced cyber hygiene, including creating strong passwords, securing accounts, updating devices, and browsing safely. They added that the discussions achieved several key outcomes, namely, promoted responsible online behavior, addressed cyberbullying, and emphasized the protection of personal information. The sessions also increased awareness of digital footprints and guided identifying threats such as scams, phishing, identity