Project FUTURE: AI-LIT Tech Literacy for All

The first day of Project FUTURE: AI-LIT Tech Literacy for All successfully kicked off on September 24, 2025, gathering students and teachers from City of Mandaluyong Science High School, Mataas na Paaralang Neptali A. Gonzales, and La Huerta National High School. The initiative, hosted by AWS Security Users Group and organized by Armada Innovation Labs in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Makati Arnaiz and JA Philippines, aims to empower underserved youth with AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills—preparing them for high-value careers both locally and globally.

Highlights of the Program

Opening Remarks – Delivered by Reese Balbastro, Vice President of Business Development at Antarex Cyber PH, setting the tone for the day’s learning journey.

Keynote Session – Dean Armada, CEO & Chief Architect of Armada Innovation Labs, led the discussion on Youth & Young Leaders Track and Cybersecurity, inspiring students to envision their role in the digital future.

Career Journey Talk – Justine Romero, Pre-Sales professional at Antarex Cyber PH, shared her transition from marketing to tech pre-sales, offering real-world insights to aspiring youth.

Tech Demo – Kyle Atendido, Sr. DevOps/DevSecOps and AWS Security Users Group Advocate, showcased practical applications of cloud security and AI.

Interactive Games & Breaks kept participants energized and engaged throughout the program.

Panel Forum: Public-Private Partnerships in Technology – A thought-provoking discussion featuring:

• Dean Armada (Armada Innovation Labs)
• Justine Romero (Antarex Cyber PH)
• Sheila Vasquez (Unite For Good President, Rotary Club of Makati Arnaiz)
• Angelica Anne Munar, PhD (JA Philippines Mentor and Adviser)
• Moderated by Haifa Carina (Alliances & Partnerships Manager, Ascendion)

Media Engagement – Representatives from Malaya Business Insight, Daily Tribune, Business Mirror, Tech & Lifestyle Journal, and Manila Standard participated in a Farside Chat and Q&A, amplifying the event’s message to a wider audience.

Closing Remarks – Kyle Atendido wrapped up the day by encouraging participants to continue exploring opportunities in AI and cybersecurity.

Impact

Day 1 of Project FUTURE: AI-LIT created a platform where students not only gained technical insights but also connected with industry leaders and media representatives. The event emphasized the importance of inclusive tech education and public-private partnerships in shaping the next generation of digital leaders.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. As Project FUTURE: AI-LIT continues into its second day, it will further deepen students’ exposure to technology, career pathways, and collaboration opportunities—strengthening the bridge between education and the future of work.