Communitech: Empowering Barangay Officials in Rural Areas Through Enhanced Computer Skills ^†

Abstract

As communities rely on technology for information dissemination, Barangays must keep pace. Training Barangay officials, a key source of local information, enhances their ability to promote and communicate efficiently. The project offered capability training in Records Management, Basic Computer Maintenance, and Multimedia Technology. Objectives included the following: providing knowledge on ICT, streamlining document processes, introducing multimedia tools, conducting hands-on training, and evaluating outputs. A framework was adapted to guide the project, from needs assessment to implementation. The training averaged a 4.64 rating, indicating success. This model supports digital literacy for marginalized sectors and can be replicated in other municipalities for greater impact.

1. Introduction

The measurement of educational quality and excellence is determined by how well an educational institution fulfills its quadratic functions in terms of instruction, research, extension, and production. Every state university or college in the Philippines has a fundamental obligation to effectively carry out these mandated functions, with the ultimate goal of achieving sustainability within the community it serves and, subsequently, enhancing the overall quality of life. As one of the four-fold mandates, extension services encompass the concepts of community outreach, technical expertise, community empowerment, technology transfer, and fostering partnerships. Community service and development is what makes a university, otherwise we become an academic institution for nothing. In this digital era, there had been a noticeable upward surge in the utilization of Information Technology, surpassing other developmental endeavors. It became more of a need rather than a choice for people, as computers are essential for helping humans in storing, retrieving, and organizing massive information. “The application of information and communication technology for improving governance by enhancing government’s role in service delivery, public administration, and the promotion of participatory democracy has been gaining momentum in many parts of the world” [1]. As the basic political unit, the Barangay serves as the primary planning and implementing unit of government programs, basic services, projects, and activities, as well as a forum in which the collective views of the people in the community may be crystallized and considered. According to Bona & Camara [2], within the Barangay level, in order for the Barangay officials to function efficiently, they should at least understand the basics of digital technology along with information technology, office computers, and other tools to make their duties effective and efficient.

2. Objectives

The general objective of the community extension project was to provide technical capability training on Records Management, Basic Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance, and Multimedia Technology for selected Barangay officials and staff, training them on how to utilize technological tools in their everyday responsibilities, especially in this digital era. The following are the specific objectives: (a) Deliver relevant information in the importance of basic computer hardware assembly and disassembly, operating system installation and computer troubleshooting. (b) Provide the processes involved in handling documents in order to create, share, organize, store, and retrieve records efficiently and effectively, (c) Offer appropriate information in the impact of Multimedia Technology in communication in this digital age and expose them to different multimedia platforms. (d) Conduct hands-on trainings in (i) computer system assembly and disassembly, software installation, and maintenance; (ii) classifying, maintaining, archiving, and securing records using MS Excel; (iii) graphics design using Canva and creating digital documents using MS Publisher. (e) Evaluate the conduct of the training-workshop.

3. Review of Related Literature

“The University shall primarily provide advanced education, higher technological, professional instruction and training in agriculture and fishery, forestry, science and technology, education, arts and sciences, and other relevant fields of study. It shall also undertake research and extension services, and provide progressive leadership in its areas of specialization” [3]. In response to one of the core functions, which is extension, higher education institutions offer different extension programs and activities to communities. It primarily aims to alleviate poverty, increase literacy, improve the health and nutrition of all sectors and ages, provide a system of governance that advances and sustains the development of humans, preserves and protects the environment, and empowers the underprivileged and poor communities and sectors [4]. “Common in the new public sector reforms is the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in improving government procedures and processes and the linkage between government, citizens, and other groups in governance to promote a more active and participatory political deliberation and decision making, a strategy known as e-governance” [2]. It is crucial that communities are equipped with ICT abilities that enhance the current knowledge or systems. In order to obtain the desired result, ICT skills must be acquired by Barangay officials to be able to utilize technology in understanding, using and interpreting information. As the basic political unit in the Philippines, Barangay is supposed to function effectively, including the use of ICT. The effectiveness of performance is evaluated based on the quality and efficiency of submitting reports to higher authorities and the dissemination of information within the local community [5]. “E-citizens play a vital role in a healthy and progressive e-governance. Fundamental to the existence of e-citizens is the required knowledge and capacity to understand the importance of ICT as a tool for socio–politico–economic interaction. Though not all citizens of a state may be familiar with the technology and know-how relevant in electronic interaction, it is the responsibility of e-citizens to help other citizens realize how ICT could be beneficial to them. E-citizens are also by nature orthodox citizens; hence physical interpersonal relationships are not to be set aside as essential elements of social cohesion. It should be firmly recognized that ICT is merely a tool of convenience” [6]. “The DICT’s development of the National ICT Ecosystem Framework hopes to address the following strategic thrusts: participatory e-governance, industry and countryside development, resource sharing and capacity building through ICT, improved public links and connectivity, ICT user protection and information security, and enabling a sustainable ICT environment. It is envisioned for these to bridge the gaps between innovations and policies” [7].

4. Methods of Implementation

To meet the goals of the Extension Project titled Communitech, the following phases were applied: (a) Phase I—Based on the request of the President of “Liga ng mga Barangay” Odiongan Chapter, with regard to their needs in Basic Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance Training, the Institute of Information Technology conducted further communication and arrangement within the context of the training. Furthermore, needs assessment was conducted for two training workshops focusing on Records Management and Multimedia Technology in order to identify the needs of each Barangay as well as their existing resources. During the project implementation, mobilization for the training needs assessment was limited due to pandemic-related restrictions, which were mitigated by utilizing online surveys, virtual meetings, and phone interviews to ensure data collection. (b) Phase II—After the conducting of Phase I, results gathered from it was analyzed for the formulation and preparation of the needed materials and appropriate tools for the conducting of the training. This involved the selection of experts who served as keynote speakers and trainers, modification of training materials, preparation of the needed devices and facilities in the implementation of the hands-on activity. Scheduling conflicts among community beneficiaries and implementers also posed challenges; these were resolved through flexible scheduling, including weekend sessions, and consistent coordination to align timelines effectively. (c) Phase III—In this phase, the actual training workshop was conducted in the four (4) computer laboratory rooms of the Institute of Information Technology (IIT). Records Management training workshop was held last 6, 7, and 9 December 2021, with a total of forty-two (42) participants composed of fourteen (14) male and twenty-eight (28) female Brgy. officials and staff. Moreover, Multimedia Technology and Basic Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance training workshop was held last 4–8 July 2022 using same laboratory rooms, which was participated by a total of twenty-four (24) beneficiaries that comprised four (4) males and twenty (20) females. (d) Phase IV—Evaluation of the training was conducted to gather the feedback of the participants in order to address some improvements for the conducting of future extension programs. Proper health protocols to prevent COVID-19 were observed in the conducting of the training to ensure the safety of all participants as well as the trainers and facilitators of the training. Moreover, a parallel session of the technical workshop was implemented to maximize the usage of laboratory rooms while observing the required social distancing protocol. Also, a partner agency, as stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), shared their counterpart, which was allotted for food consumption during the course of the training. Furthermore, faculty involvement, as well as students and administration, were encouraged to maximize the services rendered to the community.

5. Conceptual Framework

A Theory of Change was adapted from the study conducted by Montalbo [8], titled Sustaining Women Empowerment Community Extension Project: A Tri-Focal Partnership Model, as shown in Figure 1. It describes the logic model of the Theory of Change on empowering Brgy. officials. It starts with the identification of the problems or needs of the Brgy. officials who are to be changed and deliver the essential inputs to capacitate them. Then it moves to implement the well-designed program of activities, strengthen the partnerships with local agencies, and attain the different dynamic outcomes of the project to achieve the final goal—empowered Brgy. officials.

6. Results and Discussion

Training needs assessment (TNA) was conducted before the project implementation to help identify the specific needs, challenges, and priorities of the community, as well as to highlight the significance of understanding the context and tailoring project activities to address the actual needs of the community.

The data presented in

Table 1. Training needs assessment on Records Management.

Indicators	Yes (f *)	Yes (%)	No (f *)	No (%)
Records Management (MS Spreadsheet)
1. Have you used a Spreadsheet package before?	30	71%	12	29%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Creating spreadsheets	10	23%	32	76%
b. Opening, saving and printing spreadsheets	8	19%	34	81%
c. Using workbooks and worksheets	5	11%	37	88%
d. Entering data, selecting cells and editing data	4	9%	38	98%
e. Creating formula	0	0%	42	100%
f. Inserting charts and graphics into spreadsheets	0	0%	42	100%
Average	8	19%	34	81%
Records Management (File Management)
2. Do you have experience of the following?
a. Viewing your files and folders	5	11%	37	89%
b. Finding a file or folder	4	10%	38	90%
c. Opening a document	10	23%	32	77%
d. Seeing what’s on your PC	12	29%	30	71%
e. Copying, moving and deleting a file or folder	2	5%	40	95%
f. Creating a new folder	5	11%	37	89%
g. Naming a file or folder	4	10%	38	90%
h. Classifying documents and folder	3	7%	39	92%
Average	6	14%	36	86%

* Note: “f” denotes frequency or the number of respondents.

reveals significant gaps in the respondents’ knowledge of essential computer skills. Notably, 81% of the respondents (34 out of 42) indicated that they were not familiar with MS Spreadsheet. This lack of familiarity suggests a considerable portion of the population may struggle with basic data management tasks, such as creating, editing, and analyzing spreadsheets. Furthermore, the results indicated that 86% of the respondents (36 out of 42) were unversed in File Management. This finding is particularly concerning as File Management is a core skill necessary for organizing and retrieving digital documents, which is crucial in today’s digital work environment. Without adequate knowledge of File Management, individuals may face challenges in maintaining an organized digital workspace, leading to inefficiencies and potential loss of important data.

Table 2. Training needs assessment of Multimedia Technology.

Indicators	Yes (f *)	Yes (%)	No (f *)	No (%)
Multimedia Technology (MS PowerPoint)
1. Have you used MS PowerPoint Presentation before?	40	95%	2	5%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Creating, opening, and saving presentations	40	95%	2	5%
b. Using pre-designed templates for your presentations	42	100%	0	0%
c. Adding and formatting text to your presentation	42	100%	0	0%
d. Making notes pages and handouts	40	95%	2	5%
e. Utilizing graphics within a presentation	42	100%	0	0%
f. Using a computerized presentation	40	95%	2	5%
Average	41	98%	1	2%
Multimedia Technology (MS Publisher)
2. Have you used MS Publisher before?	5	11%	37	89%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Navigate Microsoft Publisher	1	2%	41	98%
b. Work with templates in Microsoft Publisher	1	2%	41	98%
c. Work with objects in Microsoft Publisher	1	2%	41	98%
d. Use Images to Create Dynamic Publications	1	2%	41	98%
e. Use Shapes, Text Boxes, and Colors	1	2%	41	98%
f. Use Advanced Aligning and Formatting Features	1	2%	41	98%
Average	1	2%	41	98%
Multimedia Technology (Canva)
3. Have you used graphic design like Canva before?	1	2%	41	98%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Create design from scratch using Canva	1	2%	41	98%
b. Choose dimensions for your design	1	2%	41	98%
c. Create background for your design	1	2%	41	98%
d. Add text, images, and other elements	1	2%	41	98%
e. Choose the right fonts	1	2%	41	98%
f. Insert audio background to your design	0	0%	42	100%
Average	1	2%	41	98%

* Note: “f” denotes frequency or the number of respondents.

shows a significant disparity in the respondents’ familiarity with various software tools, particularly those used for content creation and presentation. An overwhelming 98% of the respondents (41 out of 42) indicated that they are not familiar with Canva and MS Publisher. This finding suggests a substantial gap in their ability to engage in basic graphic design and desktop publishing tasks, which are increasingly important in both professional and community settings. In contrast, the data also shows that only 2% of the respondents (1 out of 42) lack familiarity with MS PowerPoint. This indicates that the vast majority of respondents are already proficient in using this software to create presentations. Therefore, the decision was made to exclude MS PowerPoint from the training program, allowing the focus to shift towards addressing the more pressing needs related to Canva and MS Publisher.

The post-test results, as shown in

Table 3. Hands-on training post-test in Records Management.

Indicators	Yes (f *)	Yes (%)	No (f *)	No (%)
Records Management (MS Spreadsheet)
1. Have you used a Spreadsheet package before?	42	100%	0	0%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Creating spreadsheets	42	100%	0	0%
b. Opening, saving, and printing spreadsheets	42	100%	0	0%
c. Using workbooks and worksheets	42	100%	0	0%
d. Entering data, selecting cells, and editing data	42	100%	0	0%
e. Creating formulas	42	100%	0	0%
f. Inserting charts and graphics into spreadsheets	42	100%	0	0%
Average	42	100%	0	0%
Records Management (File Management)
2. Do you have experience of the following?
a. Viewing your files and folders
b. Finding a file or folder	42	100%	0	0%
c. Opening a document	42	100%	0	0%
d. Seeing what’s on your PC	42	100%	0	0%
e. Copying, moving, and deleting a file or folder	42	100%	0	0%
f. Creating a new folder	42	100%	0	0%
g. Naming a file or folder	42	100%	0	0%
h. Classifying documents and folders	42	100%	0	0%
Average	42	100%	0	0%

* Note: “f” denotes frequency or the number of respondents.

, revealed that 100% of the participants (42 out of 42) are now knowledgeable about MS Spreadsheet and file management. This outcome indicates the effectiveness of the training workshop in enhancing the participants’ skills in these critical areas. Prior to the training, a significant portion of the participants were unfamiliar with these tools. The fact that all participants demonstrated proficiency in the post-test suggests that the workshop successfully addressed the knowledge gaps and equipped the participants with the necessary competencies.

Table 4. Hands-on training post-test in Multimedia Technology.

Indicators	Yes (f *)	Yes (%)	No (f *)	No (%)
Multimedia Technology (MS Publisher)
1. Have you used MS Publisher before?	23	96%	1	4%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Navigating Microsoft Publisher	23	96%	1	4%
b. Working with templates in Microsoft Publisher	23	96%	1	4%
c. Working with objects in Microsoft Publisher	23	96%	1	4%
d. Using images to create dynamic publications	23	96%	1	4%
e. Using shapes, text boxes, and colors	23	96%	1	4%
f. Using advanced aligning and formatting features	23	96%	1	4%
Average	23	96%	1	4%
Multimedia Technology (Canva)
2. Have you used graphic design like Canva before?	22	92%	2	8%
Do you have experience of the following?
a. Creating designs from scratch using Canva	22	92%	2	8%
b. Choosing dimensions for your design	22	92%	2	8%
c. Creating backgrounds for your design	22	92%	2	8%
d. Adding text, images, and other elements	22	92%	2	8%
e. Choosing the right fonts	22	92%	2	8%
f. Inserting audio backgrounds to your design	22	92%	2	8%
Average	22	92%	2	8%

* Note: “f” denotes frequency or the number of respondents.

presents the post-test results indicating the participants’ familiarity with MS Publisher and Canva following the training workshop. According to the data, 96% of the participants (23 out of 24) are now knowledgeable about MS Publisher, and 92% (22 out of 24) are familiar with Canva. These high percentages reflect the substantial progress made in these areas as a result of the training. Before the workshop, a significant number of participants lacked experience with these tools. The improvement demonstrated in the post-test results highlights the effectiveness of the training in addressing these specific skill gaps.

Table 5. Hands-on training post-test in Basic Hardware Installation and Maintenance.

Indicators	Yes (f *)	Yes (%)	No (f *)	No (%)
Computer Basic Operation and Maintenance
1. Do you have experience of the following?
a. Identifying parts of a personal computer	24	100%	0	0%
b. Performing basic computer operations	24	100%	0	0%
c. Managing computer software applications	24	100%	0	0%
d. Using Windows utility software	24	100%	0	0%
e. Applying computer malware prevention	24	100%	0	0%
Average	24	100%	0	0%
Computer Hardware Assembly and Disassembly
2. Do you have experience of the following?
a. Assembling motherboards	22	92%	2	8%
b. Assembling memory	22	92%	2	8%
c. Assembling Hard Disk Drives/SSDs	22	92%	2	8%
d. Assembling power supplies	22	92%	2	8%
e. Assembling Microprocessors (CPUs) and CPU fans	22	92%	2	8%
f. Installing OS (Operating System)	22	92%	2	8%
g. Practicing Occupational Health and Safety	22	92%	2	8%
h. Proper PIN configuration and PIN setting assignment	22	92%	2	8%
Average	22	92%	2	8%

* Note: “f” denotes frequency or the number of respondents.

highlights the results of the post-test conducted after the training workshop, focusing on participants’ knowledge in two critical areas: Computer Basic Operation and Maintenance, as well as Basic Computer Hardware Assembly and Disassembly. The results show that 100% of the participants (24 out of 24) have achieved proficiency in Computer Basic Operation and Maintenance. This indicates that every participant now possesses a solid understanding of essential computer operations and routine maintenance tasks, a fundamental skill set for ensuring the smooth functioning of computer systems. Additionally, 92% of the participants (22 out of 24) are now familiar with Basic Computer Hardware Assembly and Disassembly. This high percentage demonstrates that the majority of participants have acquired the skills necessary to assemble and disassemble computer hardware components. This competency is important for tasks such as upgrading computer systems, performing repairs, and understanding the internal components of computer hardware.

Table 6. Evaluation of the training workshop.

Indicators	Excellent	Very Good	Good	Fair	Poor
Records Management
Opening Program	20 (50%)	19 (48%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Venue	23 (58%)	16 (40%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Seminar Kit	24 (60%)	15 (38%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Use of Multimedia Presentation	21 (53%)	18 (45%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Knowledge Gained	26 (65%)	13 (33%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Participant–Speaker Interactions	24 (60%)	15 (38%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Facilitators	23 (58%)	16 (40%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Closing Program	24 (60%)	15 (38%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Snacks/Meals	26 (65%)	13 (33%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Average	23 (58%)	16 (40%)	1 (2%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Multimedia Technology and Basic Hardware Installation and Maintenance
Opening Program	11 (46%)	12 (50%)	1 (4%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Venue	15 (63%)	8 (33%)	1 (4%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Seminar Kit	12 (50%)	11 (46%)	1 (4%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Use of Multimedia Presentation	18 (75%)	6 (25%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Knowledge Gained	13 (54%)	11 (46%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Participant–Speaker Interactions	18 (75%)	6 (25%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Facilitators	16 (67%)	8 (33%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Closing Program	17 (71%)	7 (29%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Snacks/Meals	17 (71%)	6 (25%)	1 (4%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)
Average	15 (63%)	8 (33%)	1 (4%)	0 (0%)	0 (0%)

presents the participants’ evaluation of the training workshop, providing insights into their perceptions of the program’s effectiveness across different areas. For Records Management, the results indicate that 23 out of 40 participants, or 58%, rated the overall training as excellent. This high rating suggests that a significant portion of the participants found the training to be exceptionally valuable and effective in enhancing their skills in this area. Regarding Multimedia Technology as well as Basic Computer Installation and Maintenance, the majority of participants expressed strong approval of the training workshop. Specifically, 63% of the participants rated the overall training as excellent, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the content and delivery of these components. This distribution of ratings underscores the training’s effectiveness in these areas and reflects a general consensus of positive feedback from the participants.

The result of the evaluation rating per participant for Records Management was 4.58 as indicated in

Table 7. Result of evaluation rating per participant for Records Management.

Participant	Rating	Participant	Rating	Participant	Rating
1	5.0	14	4.5	28	4.3
2	5.0	16	4.9	29	4.0
3	4.1	17	5.0	30	4.0
4	5.0	18	4.3	31	5.0
5	4.8	19	4.3	32	4.8
6	4.6	20	3.7	33	4.7
7	5.0	21	4.2	34	4.9
8	4.9	22	4.9	35	5.0
9	4.4	23	4.6	36	5.0
10	3.9	24	4.0	37	4.8
11	4.9	25	4.0	38	5.0
12	4.9	26	3.6	39	4.9
13	4.9	27	4.8	40	4.4
Average					4.58

, while Multimedia Technology and Basic Computer Installation and Maintenance was 4.70 as shown in

Table 8. Result of evaluation rating per participant for Multimedia Technology and Basic Computer Installation and Maintenance.

Participant	Rating	Participant	Rating	Participant	Rating
1	4.8	9	5.0	17	4.8
2	4.9	10	4.3	18	4.2
3	4.7	11	4.8	19	5.0
4	4.8	12	4.8	20	4.9
5	4.1	13	4.5	21	4.9
6	4.4	14	4.3	22	4.7
7	4.9	15	4.6	23	4.8
8	4.6	16	5.0	24	4.9
Average					4.70

, resulting in an average mean of 4.64. The evaluation result using the 5-point Likert scale indicates a strong and positive response from participants. The majority of respondents expressed a favorable view of the subject under consideration, suggesting a high level of satisfaction or agreement. This score reflects a consensus among participants that the training workshop on Records Management, Multimedia Technology and Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance was well-received and generally met or exceeded expectations. While there may be areas for improvement, the overall sentiment is positive, and the majority of respondents have provided a favorable assessment.

7. Significance of Outcomes

The outcomes of this community extension project, as detailed in the results, have significant implications for both the beneficiaries and the project implementers. Understanding these outcomes highlights the project’s impact and underscores the value of the training provided.

• Enhanced ICT Efficiency—By providing training in tools like MS Spreadsheet, File Management, and MS Publisher, as well as technical skills like Basic Computer Operation and Hardware Maintenance, the project directly contributes to a more efficient use of ICT within the community. Participants can now handle data more effectively, create and manage digital content, and maintain their devices, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
• Increased Digital Inclusion—The training workshop conducted focused on the mentioned skills, making digital technology accessible to a wider range of community members. By equipping people with these essential skills, the project ensures that more individuals can participate in the digital world, whether it is for personal use, education, or business.
• Strengthened Community Engagement—The project likely encouraged community members to work together, share knowledge, and support one another in learning new technical skills. By engaging in training sessions, participants not only gained new skills but also built relationships and networks within the community.
• Established Partnerships and Linkages—The implementation of the project likely involved collaboration with the Liga ng mga Barangay to provide training and resources. These partnerships are crucial for sustaining the impact of the project, as they can lead to further opportunities for training, access to technology, and continued support for the community.

8. Conclusions

The College of Computing, Multimedia Arts, and Digital Innovation extension project Communitech, which provided the Barangay officials and staff a training workshop on Basic Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance, Records Management, and Multimedia Technology were perceived by the implementers and beneficiaries as very well implemented and a timely opportunity in this digital age. The training workshop conducted had a summary of evaluation results per participant with an average mean of 4.64, which means that the extension project was successful, and the implementers and beneficiaries were well involved. It was a tool that can be used to determine the contribution of technology in community development, specifically with regard to the mentioned training workshop. Moreover, the project will be beneficial to the Barangay officials and staff in troubleshooting computers, generating, storing, and retrieving of records, and creating multimedia presentations since nowadays, most people rely on the use of technology to make their work easier and faster. This can also be of big help when technological advancements are the new norm, wherein online and paperless transactions are more applicable and reliable in keeping the safety of the people. Furthermore, the project provides an opportunity for the College to enhance the modules developed for this purpose as well as strengthen the partnership between state universities and the local government unit. Finally, continued support from the administration as well as faculty and student involvement are evidence that this program will foster volunteerism among them. The results of this project demonstrate its potential to inform broader policies in enhancing digital literacy in marginalized communities. Its flexible training methods and improved skills provide a model for local government programs, making it easily replicable in other municipalities. With the right resources and partnerships, this initiative could be scaled to a provincial level, fostering digital inclusion and sustainable community development.

9. Recommendations

To sustain the impact of this project, it is recommended that continuous training and support be provided to Barangay officials and staff, allowing them to stay updated with emerging technologies and the best practices in Computer Hardware Installation and Maintenance, Records Management, and Multimedia Technology. Moreover, establishing support systems for Barangay personnel and officials is essential as they put their newly gained knowledge to use. This may entail assembling a specialized technical support group or forging alliances with pertinent businesses or authorities who can give advice and assistance as required. Furthermore, cooperation and knowledge sharing among the trained Brgy. officials were encouraged. They can exchange experiences, best practices, and creative ideas related to the new skills acquired through frequent gatherings, focus group discussions, or online forums. Finally, proficiency in computer skills will be included as a criterion for selecting Barangay staff to ensure seamless operations and adaptability to technological advancements. By implementing these recommendations, the community extension project can continue to empower Barangay officials and staff, enhance their technical capabilities, and contribute to the overall growth and development of the community.