MANILA, Philippines — Globe Telecom Inc. partnered with the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) in launching the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) primarily designed to empower students to become advocates of responsible digital citizenship. Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, said the collaboration with TIP was timely as cyber threats have been on the rise and the Philippines ranking among the world’s most targeted countries for cyberattacks. “Young people are at the forefront of the digital world, so they’re also among the most at risk,” said Crisanto in a statement. “Through our partnership with TIP, we’re giving students the tools and confidence to protect themselves and others online. The Digital Thumbprint Ambassador Program empowers them to turn awareness into action and help build a safer, more compassionate digital community,” she said. Selected TIP students would be trained by Globe as digital thumbprint ambassadors and trainers to promote digital literacy, mentor peers, and represent the school in cyber wellness events. Under the collaboration, these students would also gain access to internships, mentorship opportunities, learning tools, and support to bring their community projects to life, according to Globe. TIP Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Frank Alejandrino hailed the partnership with Globe saying this would not only empower its students to excel academically but also to contribute meaningfully to society. “Through this partnership with Globe, our students are given the platform to apply their digital knowledge for social good, equipping them to protect themselves and others from online harms while becoming responsible digital citizens,” Alejandrino said. Globe stressed that the ambassador program was built on its sustained efforts to protect Filipinos online through technology and education. It said that the DTP has reached nearly two million students and trained 115,000. This year alone, over 21,000 students and educators have participated in DTP learning sessions nationwide. Cyberbullying continues to affect many Filipino students, highlighting the need for digital empathy and accountability, values central to Globe’s DTP. “To our TIP ambassadors, every click, comment, and share leaves a mark. Let those marks reflect integrity, empathy, and respect. TIP’s vision is anchored on technology and inclusion and we believe that the responsible use of today’s technologies will start with you,” Crisanto said. Believing that more Filipinos students must also be advocates of responsible digital citizenship, Globe encouraged other schools nationwide to join the cause and partner in implementing the digital program. Through this partnership, schools can help foster empathy, prevent cyberbullying, and promote responsible digital citizenship among Filipino youth, Globe said.