KOICA-funded DX Center produces 25 pioneering graduates in AI and big data

Silliman University (SU) marked another milestone in its digital transformation journey as 25 pioneering graduates completed specialized training in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data Analytics under the KOICA-funded Digital Transformation (DX) Center. The graduation ceremony was held on September 5, 2025, at the Audio-Visual Theatre.

The program was jointly implemented by the Silliman University Technical, Educational, Vocational, and Entrepreneurial Center (SU TEVEC) and the College of Business Administration (CBA), with support from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Hannam University in Korea.

Among the graduates were 20 KOICA-supported scholars and five participants from the CBA.

Dr. Jose Edwin C. Cubelo, Academic Liaison Officer for the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research (VPAAR), shares his message to the graduates.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Jose Edwin C. Cubelo, College of Agriculture dean and concurrent Academic Liaison Officer for the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research (VPAAR), highlighted the importance of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) competencies in today’s economy.

“In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, ICT skills are essential not only for employability, but also for innovation, entrepreneurship, and active participation in a rapidly changing economy,” Cubelo said.

Asst. Prof. Larry Vincent C. Regencia, coordinator of CBA’s Business Analytics Program, explained the rationale of the initiative, stressing the urgent need for data professionals in both national and global contexts.

“The establishment of the DX Laboratory is a timely and strategic initiative aimed at bridging the digital skills gap and positioning the university as a hub for AI and Big Data education in the Philippines,” Regencia said.

Dr. Wilma T. Libarios, CBA dean and KOICA Project Leader, and Blanchie M. Utzurrum, TEVEC head, read the list of completers to be conferred as graduates.

The DX Laboratory at Silliman University is envisioned to train at least 100 individuals over two years, equipping students and faculty with competencies critical to the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The project also strengthens international collaboration, supports the university’s mission of innovation, and aligns with national efforts to make the Philippines a regional hub for data science talent.

Dr. Wilma T. Libarios, CBA dean and KOICA project leader, lauded the graduates’ perseverance and the strong international collaboration behind the project.

“This is more than a partnership on paper—it is a dream realized,” she said, recalling the challenging yet transformative training delivered by Korean professors from Hannam University.

Kyoungmin Lee, Hannam University’s KOICA Project Action officer, reads the congratulatory message of Dr. Younsik Shin, executive director of Hannam University’s Asia-Pacific Cross Border Cooperation Center.

Libarios urged the graduates to apply their new skills to drive innovation and positive change in their communities.
Dr. Younsik Shin, executive director of Hannam University’s Asia-Pacific Cross Border Cooperation Center, also sent his congratulatory message and encouraged the graduates to apply their learnings for personal success and the advancement of their communities.
“You have successfully completed a 100-hour training program, which included 76 hours of project-based computer learning and 24 hours of career consulting and on-the-job training. This accomplishment is not only the result of your dedication and perseverance but also an important first step in building your future careers,” Shin wrote.

The 25 graduates pose with the administration representatives of Silliman University and Hannam University.

Adding to the messages of support, Kyoungmin Lee, Hannam University’s KOICA Project Action officer, extended his congratulations while recognizing the leadership and teamwork that made the milestone possible. He cited the efforts of Dean Wilma T. Libarios, TEVEC head Ms. Blanchie Utzurrum, and Korean instructors Dr. Kang and Dr. Song.
“Please continue to carry the skills, confidence, and passion you gained here into your future careers. I truly believe that your success will also become the success of your families and your communities,” he addressed the graduates.
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of certificates from Hannam University, Silliman University, and TESDA’s National Certification (NC) II through TEVEC. Others present at the event were Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, SU president; Rev. Jonathan R. Pia, SU Church senior pastor; ; Dr. Warlito S. Caturay jr., Office of Media and Public Affairs chief; Maria Socorro P. Mira, Philippine Employment Service Office (PESO) manager and graduation ceremony guest speaker; and faculty and staff of CBA and TEVEC.

The students and panel members pose after the group project presentations at the MBA Conference Room.

Earlier in the morning, the students presented their group projects to culminate their 20-day intensive workshop to a panel that included Dr. Suzanne Lu-Bascara, asst. vice president and site director of Inspiro Relia, Inc.; Roberto V. Ozoa II, Altius Inspiro – Infocom site director; Danah Fortunato, ICT Association of Dumaguete and Negros Oriental executive director; Libarios; Regencia; Dr. Ofelia T. Ragpa; and Utzurrum