How Women Leaders are Daring to Power Ethical AI and Digital Inclusion in Mindanao

At Globe, our courage is a daily practice: choosing a new way when old rules still linger, collaborating boldly, and shaping outcomes that expand what’s possible—for our customers, our communities, and each other.

This spirit came to life in Mindanao through Project Pastil, a new initiative by Globe and Ayala Foundation that advances digital responsibility, ethical AI, and digital entrepreneurship for student leaders at the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) in Kabacan, Cotabato.

Students at the University of Southern Mindanao take part in Project Pastil, a Globe program, in collaboration with Ayala Foundation, that reinforces safe internet practices, ethical AI skills, and digital entrepreneurship in Mindanao.

Doing digital responsibility differently

Named after pastil—a simple, nourishing rice meal familiar to students—Project Pastil is designed to “feed” young minds in underserved areas with digital literacy, ethical AI awareness, and leadership and entrepreneurial skills.

Anchored on the theme “Ako, Ikaw, Tayo: Konektado at Protektado Laban sa OSAEC at CSAEM,” the program turns the call to action against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) into something concrete. Instead of just reminding students to stay safe online, it equips them to lead change in their schools and communities.

USM, known for its strong programs in science, technology, agriculture, and industry, has long invested in digital inclusion through hackathons, ICT workshops, and youth leadership programs.

The partnership with Globe and Ayala Foundation builds on this legacy by helping students navigate technology safely, ethically, and confidently, with a special focus on how AI is reshaping the way they learn, work, and connect.

Women leading the way: courage in action

Women leaders and facilitators played a central role in this milestone, embodying our Women’s Month theme on the ground.

During the launch, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP)—now in its 10th year—was rolled out to 40 student leaders and underserved learners. The session was facilitated by Zandra Louise Daraug, Business Development Expert for North Cotabato, who guided students through online safety and data privacy, cybersecurity and critical thinking, and ethical use of artificial intelligence

Zandra’s role in Mindanao is a concrete example of “courage to go” at work—bringing complex topics like AI ethics to communities that are often left behind, and daring to design sessions that are practical, localized, and truly relevant to the students’ realities.

Project Pastil: creating new paths for students

Beyond digital literacy, Project Pastil introduces a new tech-driven Globe Ambassador Program for Mindanao.

Selected student leaders—many of whom excel academically but face financial constraints—received Globe SIM cards, pre-loved 5G smartphones pre-installed with GlobeOne, GCash, and Globe Benta.

These tools become more than gadgets. They are entry points to structured, part-time opportunities, real-world exposure to digital entrepreneurship, income-generating activities that still prioritize school and leadership responsibilities.

As Andrene Buctuan, Area Operations Head for North Cotabato and Maguindanao, shared:

Through Globe DTP and Project Pastil, we aim to empower deserving student leaders with the capacity to use AI responsibly and to equip them with practical skills and an entrepreneurial mindset. With structured incentives coupled with real-world exposure, we help them build confidence, digital proficiency, and career readiness, while ensuring academics and leadership growth remain their top priorities.

This is what “daring to do it differently” looks like in practice: instead of one-off donations, students are given the tools, skills, and support to become digital leaders and micro-entrepreneurs in their own right.

Kiss Ekong, Assistant Vice President for Territory Business, further emphasized the broader impact:

Access to technology is just the beginning. By equipping students with knowledge and responsibility, we create safer online communities and open opportunities for inclusive growth. The impact of these student leaders will ripple through their schools and communities, helping Mindanao thrive in the digital age.

For Maria Leida Donque, Director of the Office of Student Affairs at USM, the partnership speaks directly to the realities of their students:

We are very thankful to Globe Telecom and Ayala Foundation for the Project Pastil initiative. This program greatly helps students, especially those with special needs, by providing this livelihood support while also teaching responsibility and financial independence. As OSA Director, I am truly grateful for this meaningful partnership that empowers our students and supports their journey toward success.

Courage to go, together

Project Pastil is powered not only by the partnership with Ayala Foundation, but also by Brigadang Ayala volunteers who bring the program to life on the ground. It reminds us that digital inclusion is never just about connectivity. It’s about:

• empowerment: enabling students to lead, not just consume

• responsibility: cultivating safe, ethical, and informed use of technology and AI

• opportunity: opening doors for education, livelihood, and leadership

Through initiatives like Project Pastil, we see what happens when that courage is shared: we don’t just go farther—we go forward together.

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