The second day of the 1st Cotabato ICT Summit 2026 marked the successful culmination of a milestone event that brought together the region’s brightest minds and most committed institutions in advancing digital innovation. Organized by the Cotabato Academe-Private Sector Technology Alliance for Learning, Innovation, Science and Technopreneurship (CATALIST), the main event was held at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) Auditorium in Kabacan, Cotabato.
Carrying the theme, “Digital Innovation Empowering Inclusive Growth in Cotabato Province,” Day 2 gathered leaders from government, industry, and the academe for meaningful discussions on emerging technologies, digital workforce development, technopreneurship, cybersecurity, and inclusive digital transformation. The summit created a platform where ideas were exchanged, partnerships were strengthened, and a shared vision for a digitally empowered Cotabato was reinforced.
The organizers extended their sincere appreciation to all participating Higher Education Institutions — University of Southern Mindanao (USM), Central Mindanao Colleges (CMC), Colegio de Kidapawan (CDK), North Valley College Foundation Inc. (NVCFI), Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC), Southern Baptist College (SBC), and Mindanao Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) — for their strong support and active involvement throughout the summit.
Gratitude was also expressed to the sponsors, partners, and distinguished speakers whose expertise and generosity enriched the conversations and made the event both meaningful and impactful. Special recognition was given to the dedicated USM Technical Working Group for their unwavering commitment behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth execution of the program. The summit was professionally led by its gracious hosts, Ms. Marie Cris Cane-Molina and Ms. Rizle D. Hilbero, who guided participants through the day’s activities with excellence.
A highlight of the event was the inspiring message of support from the Province of Cotabato, especially Vice Governor Rochella Marie Taliño Taray, who reaffirmed the province’s commitment to championing digital innovation and inclusive growth. Her message underscored the vital role of government in enabling technology-driven progress that benefits communities across Cotabato.
The summit also acknowledged the continued support of key partner agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and most especially the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), whose collaboration strengthened the event’s impact and relevance.
The successful conclusion of the 1st Cotabato ICT Summit 2026 reflects the power of collaboration among the academe, government, and private sector. Together, they are driving innovation, nurturing technopreneurship, and empowering the next generation of digital leaders in Cotabato Province.
As the curtain closes on this year’s summit, the conversations and commitments made over these two days signal not an end, but the beginning of a stronger, more connected, and digitally inclusive future for Cotabato.
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