They came from different sectors — farmers, barangay officials, youth leaders, market vendors, senior citizens, and even the curious but cautious — 35 representatives of Sta. Barbara’s vibrant communities, all in one room at the Lifebank Center last August 7, 2025.

They weren’t there for just another seminar. This was the Digital Transformation Workshop, conducted by SEA Inc.’s very own Support Manager and Head Writer of the SEA Communications Team, Cheryl M. Luis — a professional writer, columnist, and technology advocate who believes:

“Technology should be our assistant, not our master. We must remain smarter than any AI.”

Her challenge to the participants? Use digital tools not just to make life easier, but to solve real problems in their communities.

From ‘No Idea’ to ‘Now I Can Do It’

At first, some were unsure. For many, “digital tools” sounded like something only young people used. But after countless “Aha!” moments — and one AI chatbot later — the room was buzzing with ideas, confidence, and yes… resolutions (literally).

Cristy, a barangay secretary, laughed recalling her first ChatGPT experience:

“I had no idea this even existed! Now I can write resolutions for our barangay without starting from scratch. This is going to save me so much time — and maybe even let my handwriting finally rest.”

Angelic, a community organizer, saw how tech amplified her reach:

“Before, our advocacy only reached people in the room. Now, with the right tools, we can reach audiences we never imagined.”

Julroy, a farmer, admitted with a grin:

“Before, life was just… Facebook, Facebook, Facebook. Now I know there’s more to digital than scrolling.”

The Magic of Problem-Solving… in Days, Not Months

Cheryl tasked each group to choose a pressing community issue and create a 7-day action plan using digital tools like ChatGPT, Google Lens, Google Drive, and Facebook. The results were eye-opening:

• Group 1 tackled minors violating curfew, producing ordinances, organizing parent meetings, and launching the “Follow the Curfew, Protect the Youth” campaign. “With digital tools, our steps were clearer and faster — no more guessing what comes first,” they said.
• Group 2 declared war on paper garbage, drafting “Ugsaran Ko, Limpyuhan Ko” campaign materials with ChatGPT and reaching more people online. “Way easier than manual,” they agreed.
• Group 3 addressed the colorum public transport issue, drafting formal letters in minutes with ChatGPT, coordinating on Messenger, and announcing via Facebook. “Before, writing took forever. Now, AI makes it easier — we just review and finalize,” they shared.
• Group 4 launched Kabataan Rise, a mental health and positivity campaign for youth. “Technology is perfect for spreading messages fast — especially since young people are already online,” they said, scrolling through their new campaign page.
• Group 5 created ReBag Sta. Barbara, promoting eco-friendly reusable bags. “With AI, we can make sure our message is professional and easy to understand,” they explained.

Why This Workshop Worked

This wasn’t just about learning apps. It was about changing mindsets.

Lani reflected:

“I used to think Google search was enough. Now I see that if you truly understand a tool, you can use it to serve people better.”

Batchoy, a natural tinkerer, loved the practicality of Google Lens:

“If an electric fan breaks, I can just snap a picture and know where to buy the part. No more guessing. That’s real-life magic.”

Technology with a Heart

Every digital lesson was tied to a real problem. This made the workshop feel less like a class and more like a mission. Participants saw that technology isn’t just about gadgets — it’s about empowerment, problem-solving, and community progress.

As Cheryl reminded everyone:

“Technology is a bridge. But it’s the people crossing it — bringing their dreams, advocacies, and hearts — that make the real difference.”

And so, Sta. Barbara proved that when tradition and innovation work together, seven days is all it takes to spark change.