Introduction to ICT Acquisition

I. Details of the event/activity

The webinar I joined was titled “Introduction to ICT Acquisition: From RA 12009 to Sustainable Asset Management”. The session was facilitated by Engr. Medel E. Aligan, a recognized GPPB trainor, and was organized by the University of the Philippines Information Technology Development Center. It took place on September 3, 2025 at 9:00 AM (PHT). The discussion centered on how ICT procurement is being modernized under RA 12009, particularly focusing on areas like the PhilGEPS (Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System), lifecycle costing, ICT asset management, cybersecurity, and strategies for sustainable ICT acquisition.

II. Reflections on the webinar/activity give rise to (learnings)

From the webinar, I learned that ICT acquisition goes beyond simply buying hardware or software. It also involves strategic planning, security, and ensuring that technology investments remain useful over time. The talk emphasized the importance of aligning ICT projects with the Information Systems Strategic Plan (ISSP) and the MITHI framework so that systems across different agencies can work seamlessly together.

As a BSEMC student, this made me realize that when we develop applications, websites, or multimedia platforms, we should also integrate cybersecurity measures, regular maintenance, and sustainability planning. I also discovered that the government is now prioritizing cloud technologies, digital platforms, and data privacy, which are all skills directly connected to our course.

III. Reflections on possibilities on implementing some of the webinar input on a practical level (practical application of learnings)

The insights I gained from the webinar can definitely be applied to my future projects. For instance, I can develop applications, software, or websites that are not only functional but also interoperable, secure, and easier to maintain. I can also put into practice lifecycle planning, making sure that the systems I design remain effective and adaptable for the long term. The discussions on PhilGEPS and blockchain also gave me ideas on how I can design platforms that ensure transparency and security, which are essential in ICT-related work.

IV. Positive feedback (on the event organization)

I found the webinar to be well-prepared and very informative. The speaker shared practical insights by discussing real issues such as skills gaps, cybersecurity risks, and the hesitation of some agencies to embrace digital transformation. These examples made the session more relatable and easier to connect with. Overall, the event expanded my knowledge and allowed me to see clear links between the topics discussed and what I am currently studying in BSEMC.

V. Suggestions for improvements to be made/consider for future activities

Even though the webinar was already a success, there are still a few areas that could be improved. For example, it would have been more engaging if the organizers included case studies, live demonstrations, or simulations—like showing how an e-bidding process works in PhilGEPS or how to compute for lifecycle costs. Inviting more experts from the multimedia and computing industry could also help participants see the direct impact of ICT procurement on the technologies we use. Lastly, adding short icebreaker activities might keep participants more focused and interactive. Still, I can say the webinar was meaningful, insightful, and worth attending.