In a landmark move to address the Philippines’ escalating cybersecurity crisis and foster regional innovation, Makerspace Innovhub OPC, a premier technology and startup hub, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Universidad de Dagupan (UDD), a leading ISO-certified university. This strategic partnership will establish a cutting-edge innovation program designed to fortify the university’s digital defenses and create a robust pipeline of job-ready cybersecurity professionals in the Ilocos Region.
This collaboration is a direct and proactive response to a critical national challenge. The education sector has become a primary target for cyber threats, accounting for 17.4% of all data breach incidents in the first half of 2024. With high-profile breaches compromising the sensitive data of students and educators nationwide, this partnership aims to build a resilient digital future for education by developing talent from the ground up.
Highlights of the Partnership / Key Partnership Pillars:
- Bridging the National Cybersecurity Skills Gap:
The partnership directly confronts the nationwide shortage of certified cybersecurity professionals by creating a specialized training ground within UDD. The program will leverage UDD’s existing Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Major in Infrastructure with Cybersecurity, providing students with advanced, practical skills. - Curriculum and Hands-On Training:
Makerspace Innovhub, along with DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services, will co-develop and lead intensive, hands-on workshops in areas like ethical hacking and AI-driven threat analysis. This ensures students gain practical skills with the latest industry tools. - Infrastructure Development: The UDD-Makerspace Innovation Garage:
A dedicated “Innovation Garage” will be established on the UDD campus, serving as a hub for student collaboration, ideation, and startup development. This space will provide students from all disciplines with the resources, mentorship, and environment needed to transform innovative ideas into viable projects and ventures. - Research and Development (R&D):
Both parties, including DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services, will collaborate on R&D initiatives to develop localized cybersecurity solutions, particularly for the education and government sectors. - Talent Pipeline and Career Opportunities:
The program will create a direct pathway from education to employment. Makerspace Innovhub and DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services will facilitate internships and connect qualified students with their networks of tech companies and startups, helping to retain top talent in Pangasinan.
Executive Quotes:
“We believe this partnership will not only enhance the university’s security posture but also inspire the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. Our mission at Universidad de Dagupan is to prepare individuals to meet the challenges of a changing world, and today, that means equipping them with the skills to defend our digital frontiers. By joining with Makerspace Innovhub, we are building a bastion of innovation and security right here on our campus.” — Dr. Feliza Arzadon-Sua, President, Universidad de Dagupan
“Innovation thrives when it solves real-world problems. The cybersecurity threat is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and the best way to fight it is by empowering a skilled, proactive workforce. Through this partnership, we are bringing industry-level training and an entrepreneurial mindset to the academic setting. Together, we can build a safer digital future for education and establish Pangasinan as a center of excellence for tech talent.” — Tzar Umang, Chief Operations Officer, Makerspace Innovhub OPC
“We are excited to be part of this vital collaboration. The integration of our real-world cybersecurity experience into UDD’s curriculum will provide students with unparalleled practical knowledge, directly preparing them to combat the sophisticated threats of today’s digital landscape. This partnership is crucial for developing a robust cybersecurity workforce right here in Pangasinan.” Christian Idia, Proprietor and General Manager, DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services.
About Makerspace Innovhub OPC:
Makerspace Innovhub OPC is a leading technology incubator and innovation consultancy located in Mapandan, Pangasinan. With a mission to empower startups and developers, the organization provides cutting-edge training, development, and strategic solutions in web development, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Web3/blockchain technologies. Through hands-on workshops and community events, Makerspace Innovhub is dedicated to turning innovative ideas into successful, real-world ventures.
About Universidad de Dagupan:
Universidad de Dagupan (UDD), formerly Colegio de Dagupan, is a premier, non-sectarian university in Dagupan City and the first in Region 1 to be ISO 21001:2018 Certified. For over three decades, UDD has been committed to providing quality education that is responsive to the needs of society. The university offers a wide range of programs and aims to develop competent, disciplined, and socially responsible professionals who contribute to national development through critical thinking, research, and community service.
About DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Sevices:
DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services, a prominent firm based in Mapandan, Pangasinan, specializes in safeguarding digital assets and optimizing IT infrastructures. With a core mission to empower businesses and individuals, the organization delivers cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, IT consulting, and managed services. Through proactive threat detection, robust defense strategies, and comprehensive IT support, DigiForce Cyber Security & IT Services is dedicated to ensuring secure, efficient, and resilient digital operations for its clients.
