A landmark partnership was formalized as the Iloilo Provincial Government – Office of the Local Economic and Investment Promotions, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) – College of Computing and Informatics, and Youth First Initiative Philippines – Lokal Kita Program came together for the Ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing on May 4, 2026.

Held at the 4th Floor, SSB Hall of ISAT U, the event marked the official launch of the Digital Transformation Initiative for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (DXI-MSME), a program designed to strengthen the competitiveness, productivity, sustainability, and scalability of local businesses in the digital era.
The collaboration underscores a unified commitment to empower MSMEs by equipping them with modern tools, knowledge, and strategies to thrive in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. Through DXI-MSME, enterprises will gain access to innovative solutions that enhance operations, expand market reach, and foster long-term resilience.
With the involvement of Youth First Initiative Philippines, the partnership also highlights the vital role of young innovators in driving community development. The Lokal Kita Program integrates youth participation into the initiative, ensuring that digital transformation is not only about technology adoption but also about cultivating fresh ideas and sustainable practices.

Local officials, academic leaders, and youth representatives attended the ceremony, reflecting the strong multi-sectoral support for the project. The signing symbolizes a collective vision: to position Iloilo’s MSMEs as dynamic players in the digital economy while nurturing inclusive growth across communities.
This collaboration is expected to serve as a model for other provinces, demonstrating how government, academia, and youth organizations can work together to accelerate digital transformation and economic empowerment.