AMPLIFYING YOUTH FUTURES TOGETHER

YOUTH Empowerment: KA-HUSAY-AN Program 

promotes Digital Career Skills 

Pearly A. Esperida

The KA-HUSAY-AN (Kabataang Husay sa Bayan) Digital Career Skills Development Program empowered young people in the Bicol region with essential digital competencies to thrive in today’s technology-driven economy. Officially launched in June 2024, the program was led by iLab ARAL Inc., co-organized by the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (Bicol Hub) and supported by the US Embassy in the Philippines through the YSEALI Amplify8 program.

It also gained support from various organizations and community engagement partners.

Present at the launching ceremonies held at Robinson’s Place Naga were representatives of various international and local partners. Ms. Jennifer Goldstein, Deputy Director at the US Embassy Philippines, and Dr. Vlad Marino, Lead Faculty at YSEALI Academy at Fulbright University Vietnam, gave their inspiring messages on youth empowerment in the digital space.

While Ms. Rizza Exala of the CamSur Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Mr. Keith Eduard Hidalgo of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-South Luzon, Ms. Maria Peñafrancia Nepomoceno of DICT Camarines Sur, Dr. Ana Marie Binalla from Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, and Mr. Reuel Oliver from Naga City Investment Board demonstrated their commitment as partners by pledging that their organizations and institutions will actively continue to advance digital career skills through the KA-HUSAY-AN program.

Over the past year, KA-HUSAY-AN Program has been implemented through numerous online and onsite training sessions and workshops focusing on digital literacy fundamentals, AI literacy, tech entrepreneurship and cybersecurity. These sessions have reached a diverse group of over 600 young participants, including those from underserved communities, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal access to digital education.

Digital Visual Note-Taking Training

The first online session of the program was held on June 22, 2024, via Zoom Teleconferencing platform and attended by over 100 young participants from the Bicol region.

The event was led by Nattapon Aunhabundit, Thai Business facilitator and HR professional, and alumna of YSEALI Academy at Fulbright University Vietnam-Technology & Innovation Program 2023. The learning session highlighted the power of visual notetaking in enhancing communication, learning, and creativity.

In Bicol Region, many young aspirants often encounter the harsh realities of limited opportunities. For countless youth, the path to a fulfilling career or impactful contribution to their community can feel obscured by a lack of access to relevant skills and resources. To address this concern, the KA-HUSAY-AN (Kabataang Husay sa Bayan), an initiative by iLab ARAL Inc., emerged to transform our reality. Through its focused curriculum on digital career skills, entrepreneurship, and leadership, KA-HUSAY-AN offers not just training but a truly transformative experience, equipping young individuals with the essential tools for future success and meaningful community contribution.

Before KA-HUSAY-AN, many young people in the Bicol region, including myself, were curious about the skills that could contribute to future careers. However, the means to bridge the gap between skills and opportunity were scarce. The challenge was not a lack of intelligence or drive, but rather a lack of structured pathways to acquire the specialized skills that could unlock new career opportunities.

The dreams of starting a small online business or securing a remote job seemed just out of reach due to uncertainties and doubts about one’s skills.

My personal journey with iLab ARAL Inc.'s KA-HUSAY-AN program began not just as a participant but as a dedicated facilitator for several significant events. The program allowed me to witness and contribute to the program's profound impact on different beneficiaries and sectors. One of my initial roles involved the pre-launch phase, where I collaborated with Mr. James Earn A. Esperida to gather and analyze data through surveys. This led to the comprehensive report titled: "Unveiling the Digital Career Skills Landscape of Bicolano Youth: A Comprehensive Report of KA-HUSAY-AN Digital Career Skills Survey."

My key takeaway from this foundational work was the need for increased awareness regarding digital literacy development and its practical application for career opportunities in the region.

I then had the privilege of facilitating specific training events. The "Digital Visual Note-taking” session with Ms. Nattapon Aunhabundit was particularly enjoyable, highlighting how digital literacy could be integrated with creativity and drawing skills for a fun and engaging learning experience. Later, in the "Creative Youth Futures Training: Mastering Generative AI from Concept to Creation” with SEA-Up, headed by Mr. Avisenna Gusta, I witnessed a boundary-breaking collaboration with international trainers. Here, we explored the mind-blowing potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in generating diverse outputs, from information, music, images, and videos, opening new horizons for creative expression.

Moreover, my involvement extended to the "Google Certification Program” with Mrs. Micah Joy Mitra. As a product of the batch 1 coaching session and having successfully passed the Google Certification Educator (GCE) Level 1, I then had the opportunity to facilitate the following batches, directly contributing to others achieving similar milestones. At first, I had doubts about passing the certification by Google, but the coaching session clarified things for me, including how to take the virtual examination.

The program is also aligned with Global Citizenship Education, shaping beneficiaries into responsible and active citizens who understand the importance of sustainability and lifelong learning in an ever-changing world. The program exemplifies respect for diversity by welcoming participants from various sectors.

While the main challenge remains, like reaching more communities to train in essential digital skills, I am positive about future partnerships with schools and organizations to overcome this. The KA-HUSAY-AN is far more than a skills training program; it is a catalyst for transformation, a bridge connecting the aspirations of Bicolano youth with the vast opportunities of the digital age.

By focusing on practical digital career skills, alongside crucial elements of entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership, the program provides a holistic and deeply impactful experience. It equips young individuals to not only secure fulfilling employment but also to become innovators, job creators, and responsible leaders, ultimately contributing to a more empowered future for themselves and their communities.

In conclusion, my involvement with KA-HUSAY-AN has enhanced my understanding of its significance. The trainers were not just teachers, but dedicated mentors, guiding us through the complexities of digital career skills. The learning was not just confined to passive lectures; it was hands-on, collaborative, and deeply engaging. The learning environment was also incredibly supportive and inclusive. The true testament to KA-HUSAY-AN's impact lies in the profound transformation it facilitates. Participants not only secured certified digital skills but also with a newfound confidence and purpose. The program does not just promise employability; it delivers the practical know-how that translates directly into enhanced career prospects.

TURNING PAGES, ADVANCING LITERACY

iLab ARAL Inc.’s publishing milestones

Aila Joy A. Esperida

In a world of rapidly evolving technology, iLab ARAl Inc. aims to bring back the joy of reading and the power of local storytelling to the heart of education. Through purposeful publishing, the organization is not only turning pages but also advancing literacy in deeply rooted, culturally meaningful ways.

As a champion of homegrown knowledge and inclusive learning, iLab ARAL Inc. has launched a growing body of original publications that reflect the diverse stories, struggles, and hopes of Filipino communities. These works span children’s literature, creative nonfiction, environmental advocacy, and regional folktales—all united by a shared purpose: to educate, empower, and preserve.

Subangan kan mga Paglaom

This is a poignant collection of poems intertwined with film links from the Sining-Sine Fest, a creative initiative by iLab ARAL Inc. in collaboration with LGU Calabanga, the Calabanga Municipal Tourism, Culture and the Arts Office, Parasurat Bicolnon Inc., and Nesting Place Integrated Farm.

This project beautifully weaves poetry and cinema to celebrate hope, culture, and the rich storytelling traditions of the municipality of Calabanga in Bicol Region.

Si Dilis Dalisay at Si Hiponlito

This is an underwater tale authored by Raffy B. Baao that entertains while teaching important lessons on self-worth, friendship, and marine conservation, perfect for children learning values and environmental responsibility.

Mga Osipon kay Kristine

This creative non-fiction work contains twenty short stories written in Filipino that recount the experiences of the people in Camarines Sur during Tropical Storm Kristine on October 22, 2024. The story elements, particularly the plot and setting, were pieced together from interviews with victims, reports broadcasted on the radio during the night of the tragedy, stories shared by the author’s students, and live reels and videos posted on social media. The author used these sources to create Osipon or narratives that capture the struggles of the victims that night as they fought for their lives.

Halamalamat

This collection, authored by Raquel Mañago Reapor, powerfully retells selected Philippine legends from Alamat ng Pinaggikanan by Dr. Gloria B. Osea. Through a gender-sensitive and socially conscious lens, it reclaims ancestral wisdom and challenges outdated norms—making folklore both meaningful and empowering for today’s youth. 

Si Tiko Tuko

This story, written by Oriel G. Mostar Jr., captures children’s imaginations while subtly embedding themes of acceptance and community.

Si Asela sagkod si Takurering

Written by Ms. Irmina Torres, the story champions values such as resourcefulness, hope, and the power of inner vision. Through Asela’s quiet determination and creative spirit, readers are reminded that limitations do not define one’s ability to create beauty and purpose.

Award-winning Advocacy: 

iLab ARAL and the Success of KU.WA.R.TA.

James Earn A. Esperida

The 2024 awarding ceremonies were graced by BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., and Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo Puyat, who led the awarding ceremonies and commended the valuable work of BSP’s partner organizations across the country. Regional officers, such as Deputy Director Atty. Tomas Cariño Jr.

iLab ARAL was also proud to be accompanied at the event by its valued partner, CamSur Multi-purpose Cooperative (CMPC), whose support has helped bring KU.WA.R.TA. to more schools and communities in the province. This marks the second consecutive year that iLab ARAL has received the Outstanding BSP Stakeholder Award. It reflects a growing impact and steadfast commitment to building financially literate and empowered Filipino communities.

From humble beginning to continued Impact

The KU.WA.R.TA. program started in 2015 as a small classroom financial literacy project. That same year, as the proponent of the project, I was recognized by Pru Life UK as an Outstanding Cha-Ching Financial Literacy Educator. In 2016, the program grew into a school-wide project, and I received another award — Outstanding Financial Literacy Teacher — from Pru Life UK and Junior Achievement Philippines. The school continued to run the program every year.

By 2019, KU.WA.R.TA. reached the district level with help from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). A special KU.WA.R.TA. book I developed and funded by the LGU of Calabanga, was used in more than seven schools, including coastal, upland, and central schools in the area. In 2020, the DepEd Regional Office V and Pru Life UK recognized the program as one of the most innovative financial literacy projects in the region through the Cha-Ching Bling Award. That same year, it also received an outstanding stakeholder award from BSP Naga Branch. Then, in 2021, the whole district received an Outstanding Stakeholder Award from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Later, when iLab ARAL Inc. was established as a training and development organization, the program was officially managed by the organization. From 2023 to 2024, under iLab ARAL, KU.WA.R.TA. received two more awards from the central bank, showing its strong and continuing impact in promoting financial literacy.

The logo through the years

The first logo of Project KU.WA.R.TA. was simple and only featured the project name in a dynamic and energetic feel like early classroom-based beginnings and its goal to make financial learning fun and approachable for young students. It was used for three (3) years, from 2015 to 2018.

The second logo introduced more visual elements. It placed the KUWARTA title within a circular green emblem, surrounded by illustrations of community symbols. This version emphasized community involvement and sustainability indicating that the project was scaled up to the district level in 2019 and its collaboration with local government and stakeholders. It was used until 2021.

The third logo was updated and was used from 2022 to 2023. It adopted a simpler, more formal design. It used a stamp-like circular layout with clean lines and monochromatic green tones. The focus was on the full meaning of KU.WA.R.TA. (Kumita, Wais na paggasta, Responsableng pag-ipon, Taos-pusong pagtulong). It was later upgraded to a modern and learner-friendly design. The bold and colorful “KuWaRTa” letters are illustrated with characters performing money-related tasks—such as budgeting, saving, shopping, and donating. Each letter visually represents a concept from the acronym. This version is more visual, inclusive, and engaging.

What makes us award-winning?

The KU.WA.R.TA. program includes a variety of activities and learning tools designed to teach financial literacy to children, youth, and adults—especially teachers. One of its main components is the training and seminar sessions, where participants learn about important money skills such as earning, saving, responsible spending, and charitable values. These sessions are held not only for students but also for teachers, parents, and members of the community.

Another important part of the program is the Money Smart Camp and Summit, which are interactive events filled with workshops, games, and fun group activities. These gatherings help deepen understanding of financial concepts in a creative and engaging way for all ages. To make learning more exciting, KU.WA.R.TA. also includes digital games that allow learners to explore financial situations and practice smart decisions in a fun and safe environment.

The program also hosts various contests, such as poster-making and ‘alkansya’-making. These contests inspire creativity and help participants express what they’ve learned about money management. Finally, KU.WA.R.TA. produces learning materials, like brochures and simple guides, which are shared in schools and communities. These resources support continued learning for students and teachers alike, making financial literacy more accessible to everyone.

CEO Esperida joins Rappler and DW Akademie’s MIL Training

As part of its commitment to combating misinformation and promoting media literacy, iLab ARAL Inc. CEO James Earn A. Esperida joined the Movers for Facts Trainers' Training organized by DW Akademie and Rappler from August 4 to 8, 2024, at Villa Caceres Hotel in Naga City. The five-day program trained participants to become MIL advocates through sessions on community dialogue, the roles of MIL trainers, and an activity ranking media by trustworthiness, led by Thorsten Karg of DW Akademie.

Key modules included Media and Information Landscape, Critical Thinking and Fact-checking, Social Media for Social Good, and Digital Well-being in the Disinformation Age, facilitated by Rappler’s Pia Ranada

and Gemma Mendoza.

In November 2024, participants held a follow-up online session. CEO Esperida led a talk on digital well-being, highlighting the importance of online safety and digital mindfulness. The training track facilitated the virtual session, while the content track produced MIL-related materials.

iLab ARAL also runs its own MIL advocacy project, FACTS Patrol, launched in 2023 to further promote truth, critical thinking, and responsible media use in communities.

iLab ARAL Inc. joins BSP’s FIN-ED Congress

iLab ARAL Inc., represented by Executive Director James Earn Esperida and Volunteer Technology Officer Jan Christian Montañez, joined the 2024 Financial Education Stakeholders’ Congress organized by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on November 19-20, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

The event convened leaders from government, private institutions, and civil society organizations to advance financial literacy and inclusion. On Day 1, launching of financial education modules designed for government employees, police personnel, and educators under the Department of Education’s K-12 and Alternative Learning System (ALS) was held.

Key sessions included panel discussions on leveraging AI and digital platforms to expand financial literacy, with insights from experts like DICT Undersecretary David Almirol, Jr., Visa’s Nate Low, and PayMongo’s Jaime Miel Pahati. The Protect Your Money (PYM) campaign was also introduced, encouraging smarter financial decisions among Filipinos.

On Day 2, hybrid sessions highlighted the impact of financial education on building resilient individuals and communities. A ceremonial signing solidified partnerships between the DepEd, ALS, and BDO Foundation. Inspiring testimonials from beneficiaries, including students, MSMEs, and uniformed personnel, underscored how financial literacy programs are transforming lives.

iLab ARAL Inc. remains steadfast in its mission to foster financial literacy and inclusion. Through its KU.WA.R.TA. program, now in its 9th year, the organization continues to empower individuals and communities toward a financially resilient Philippines.

CO-CREATING LX TOGETHER

Our partners’ commitment to strengthen our impact

At iLab ARAL Inc., our mission to transform learning experiences (LX) has always been rooted in collaboration. We believe that impactful education doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives in ecosystems where knowledge, innovation, and commitment converge. Today, we take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the collective force behind our progress: our partners and stakeholders.

Every step we've taken in co-creating meaningful learning experiences has been shaped by the wisdom, passion, and dedication of the communities and institutions we work with. From local schools and government units and agencies to development organizations, grassroots educators, cooperatives, and private sector champions, your support has allowed us to build not just scalable solutions—but sustainable change.

You have helped us pilot new ideas, challenge assumptions, and refine our approach. You have opened doors to underserved communities and entrusted us to work alongside you in amplifying learning equity. Whether through shared research, collaborative design, or resource

mobilization, your involvement has been integral to making our work relevant and responsive to the needs of learners across the country.

Our partnerships are more than strategic, they are values-driven. The commitment of our partners shows us that innovation is not a solo endeavor. It is a shared journey, grounded in trust, fueled by dialogue, and strengthened by diverse perspectives.

As we move forward, we reaffirm our promise to continue co-creating learning experiences with and for the people who matter most - the youth. To all our partners, thank you for walking with us, challenging us, and believing in the power of education that is inclusive, human-centered, and transformative.

Special thanks to the following:

• US Embassy Philippines and YSEALI Philippines

• YSEALI Amplify8

• Ms. Annielen Panerio, General Manager of CamSur Multi-Purpose Cooperative

• Atty. Tomas Cariño Jr., Deputy Director of BSP-South Luzon, and Mr. Keith Eduard Hidalgo

• Hon. Eugene Norman B. Severo and LGU Calabanga

• Dr. Apolonia Sebello and Dr. Ana Marie Binalla of Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology

• Ms. Pinky Nepomuceno, Provincial Director, and Ms. Christine Joy Botin of DICT-Cam.Sur

To our other local champions - from school heads and youth leaders, to tech mentors, volunteer facilitators, and barangay officials, thank you for lending your time, voice, and creativity to this shared mission. To our dedicated supporters, we deeply thank you for standing behind our mission. By believing in the work we do, you have been instrumental in creating opportunities where they matter most.

Let us #KeepLearningConnected to amplify youth futures together!