Philippines Program

A program initiated by Microsoft Philippines that was recently expanded to her hometown in Zamboanga City is called Tulay (bridge). Tulay is part of the Microsoft Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills Program, a global initiative focused on improving lifelong learning for underserved youth and adults by providing technology skills through non-government organizations around the world. A former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Japan, was determined to start a business when she came back to the Philippines last February 2006 after a stint as a performing artist. She is one of the first graduates of Tulay in Zamboanga, a program that seeks to provide increased access to and training on technology for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families through the Community Technology Learning Centers (CTLCs). CTLCs provide access to e-mail and video chat that enable the OFWs and their families to stay in touch. Recipients of the program grants are public centers where people can gain IT skills and training to help themselves and their communities. The centers are equipped with Internet connection and web cameras, enabling the OFWs to communicate with their families in the Philippines in virtual face-to-face conversations. After the training they will also how to chat with other people to make friends and they can visit Free Senior Chat room to meet people with the same interest.