RDEsys

Office of the Vice President for
Research, Development, and Extension

buovprde@bicol-u.edu.ph

Bicol University, East Campus,Legazpi City,
Albay, Legazpi, Philippines

Menu

Kickstarting the 2025 EDTalk Series: Episode 1 – Understanding Digital Citizenship and Rights!

Legazpi City, Philippines — March 11, 2025 — The much-anticipated 2025 EDTalk Series on Digital Citizenship officially launched with a successful first episode titled “Understanding Digital Citizenship and Rights.” The virtual event gathered students, educators, and researchers from public and private academic institutions nationwide, setting a strong tone for the year-long initiative promoting responsible and ethical digital engagement.

Serving as the resource speaker for the opening episode was Ms. Charevel F. Ferranco, Director of the Office of Media and Public Affairs at Romblon State University. Ms. Ferranco delivered an enlightening talk on the foundations of digital citizenship, exploring key concepts such as digital rights, online privacy, ethical platform use, and responsible behavior in the digital space.

The session was expertly moderated by Dr. Rebecca Rosario O. Bercasio, Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence at Bicol University, who facilitated interactive discussions and encouraged meaningful engagement among participants.

The event also recognized the technical contributions of Mr. Geremil Bulawan from the Bicol University Extension Management Division, whose support ensured a smooth and seamless webinar experience.

Throughout the session, speakers and participants underscored the growing impact of digital technologies on education and communication. Alongside the benefits, they tackled the pressing challenges of digital safety, equitable access, and ethical use. Emphasis was placed on equipping learners and educators with the necessary competencies to navigate and thrive in today’s digital landscape — a key component of fostering both responsible digital citizenship and global citizenship education.

Organized in collaboration with Bicol University, Romblon State University, the Leaders and Educators Association for the Development of GCED (LEAD-GCED), and the National Coordinating Body for UNESCO Clubs in the Philippines (NCBUCP), the EDTalk Series is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and the broader mission of cultivating 21st-century skills through institutional learning.

Key Takeaways from Episode 1:

  • A deeper understanding of digital rights and responsibilities
  • Practical strategies to ensure online safety and mitigate risks like cyberbullying, identity theft, and misinformation
  • The importance of ethical and positive digital behavior
  • A collective call to action: promoting digital citizenship is everyone’s responsibility

As the opening episode concluded, organizers expressed their appreciation to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to its success. The EDTalk 2025 Series continues in the coming weeks, aiming to empower more digital citizens and champion lifelong learning in an increasingly connected world.