TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Cagayan Valley is intensifying efforts to promote the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen cybersecurity awareness amid the growing threat of cybercrime in the country. During the Kapihan sa DICT held in celebration of National Information and Communications Technology Month and the agency’s 10th anniversary, officials highlighted the agency’s continuing initiatives to expand digital literacy, improve connectivity, and equip communities with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly digital environment. The initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to accelerate digital transformation, enhance cybersecurity, and ensure that emerging technologies such as AI are utilized responsibly to improve governance, public services, and economic opportunities. Cirilo N. Gazzingan Jr., head of the DICT Isabela Provincial Office, said the agency continues to conduct training programs and seminars on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity for students, government employees, social media users, and other sectors to help them maximize the benefits of technology while protecting themselves from online threats. He stressed the importance of increasing public awareness on the responsible use of AI, particularly as AI-generated content becomes more sophisticated and capable of closely mimicking legitimate information. Gazzingan said DICT is also developing policies and guidelines that will support the ethical and responsible implementation of AI technologies while strengthening safeguards against cyber threats. “Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. We can conduct training, but ensuring cybersecurity is not the responsibility of DICT alone. It also involves other government agencies, organizations, and every individual using digital platforms,” he said. As part of its 10th anniversary celebration, DICT highlighted its accomplishments in expanding digital access and promoting technology-enabled governance and public service delivery across the region. Partner agencies, including the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, Department