Fifty-one (51) women from Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental are set to seek new employment opportunities after completing ELEVATE AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation), a program designed to equip women with digital skills while fulfilling their roles at home.
A collaboration between Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc., the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, the Aboitiz Foundation, non-government organization Connected Women, and the Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental local government unit (LGU), ELEVATE AIDA is designed to empower women in rural communities by providing free training in remote work skills, including image identification, categorization, and other data labeling techniques.
With these skills, the 51 ELEVATE AIDA graduates, who were recognized in a ceremony last February 7, 2025, can now seize opportunities in the growing AI industry while staying close to their families. One graduate already has a guaranteed job offer.
Empowering Communities Through Women
“This graduation is a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and opportunity. It reflects our belief that progress is not just about what we build but how we build up the people in the places we join. Empowering these women is a step towards unlocking greater opportunities for their families and communities,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital President & CEO Cosette V. Canilao.
Echoing this vision, Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar highlighted the critical role of women in driving sustainable community transformation.
“At Aboitiz Foundation, we believe empowering women drives lasting community change. Through the ELEVATE AIDA program, we equip women—including solo parents, homemakers, and unemployed mothers—with digital skills that open doors to new opportunities and strengthen families. This is our commitment to inclusive progress,” Hontiveros-Malvar said.
By fostering digital empowerment, the ELEVATE AIDA program exemplifies the Aboitiz Group’s dedication to holistic and people-centric development—ensuring that progress reaches not just infrastructure, but the very individuals who build and sustain communities.
The Vision for Laguindingan
Laguindingan Municipality Mayor Diosdado T. Obsioma shared his pride and optimism for the development of the town and its people.
“Our vision for Laguindingan is to improve the overall well-being of our people. We’ve waited a long time for progress, and now it’s here, starting with the development of our residents. The ELEVATE AIDA program is a reflection of that progress, as it gives women in our town the tools to improve their lives,” Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental Mayor Diosdado T. Obsioma said.
Seizing Opportunities
The program’s collaborative effort reflects a shared vision among stakeholders to uplift women by equipping them with digital skills.
“You have been given a chance to unlock your potential in the digital workforce. This opportunity is your foundation, but staying proactive, applying for roles, and continuing to grow your skills will ensure your success. Connected Women is here to support you every step of the way,” said Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio.
A Graduate’s Journey
For many of the graduates, the training required balancing various responsibilities, yet the rewards have been life-changing.
“This program has given me confidence and growth, and I’m deeply grateful to Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz Foundation, and Connected Women for this opportunity to learn and grow,” shared graduate ELEVATE AIDA graduate Doreen Lagunsad.
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Development
Elsewhere, Aboitiz InfraCapital has supported the implementation of a pilot ELEVATE AIDA program in Davao City (which is kicking off its second batch) affirming its commitment to fostering inclusive growth. Beyond skills development, the program aligns with the Laguindingan LGU’s vision of reducing poverty in the province by creating livelihood opportunities for its people.
Through initiatives like ELEVATE AIDA, Aboitiz InfraCapital, Aboitiz Foundation, and their partners continue to prove that building infrastructure is more than just a physical endeavor—it’s a commitment to creating sustainable and meaningful change for communities.
READY FOR THE DIGITAL FUTURE. The top performers of the ELEVATE AIDA Laguindingan batch proudly display their certificates, ready to take on opportunities in the AI industry.
