ST Foundation Talks: meet Janice: driving Digital Unify to make a positive impact with ST Foundation Philippines
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from, and what’s your background?
Sure! I’m Janice, happily married with three wonderful kids, and we live in Cabuyao, Laguna here in the Philippines. I’ve always loved connecting with people and being involved in community activities. A big part of my life revolves around my church — it’s where I find a lot of meaning and support, and it’s given me many opportunities to grow alongside others. When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, taking leisurely walks, singing videoke (which is a lot of fun!), and just spending quality time with my family and friends. These moments really help me recharge and keep a good balance between work and life.
What brought you to the ST Foundation? Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you to join?
I’ve actually been involved with Digital Unify since 2012 as part of my job. But what really keeps me going isn’t just the tasks themselves — it’s knowing that what I do is part of something bigger. It’s about making a real difference in people’s lives, especially in our local communities. That sense of purpose makes the work deeply fulfilling and motivates me every day.
What does your role as a country manager involve? What does a typical day look like for you?
As the country manager, I get to work closely with local communities and government units to spot opportunities where Digital Unify can make an impact. I oversee the launch of new programs and keep track of how our Digital Unify centers are doing. It’s very hands-on — I collaborate with volunteers and community members to make sure everything runs smoothly and that our initiatives truly benefit the people we serve.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work with the ST Foundation?
Without a doubt, it’s hearing stories from the people we help. When they share how our programs have changed their lives or helped them gain new skills, it’s incredibly moving. Their gratitude is what fuels my passion and reminds me why this work matters so much. If you want to read some of them, check out this webpage!
Can you share a story or moment from your work that really stayed with you?
Absolutely. I remember when Giovanna Bottani, our Director of Operations, and Renato Sirtori, who manages Asia operations, visited the Philippines. Our partner public school gave them such a warm welcome. As we walked through the school gate, a group of students performed and waved Philippine flags to thank us for launching the Tablet for Kids program there. Seeing their excitement and appreciation was really touching — it was a powerful reminder of the positive impact we’re making.
What are some of the unique challenges you face in your country, and how do you approach them?
One big challenge is keeping the momentum going — especially with programs like Tablet for Seniors. It’s not just about getting people to join but also supporting them throughout the journey. To tackle this, we work closely with local government units and volunteers to provide ongoing help. We’re also always on the lookout for new partners who can help us grow and sustain these programs long-term.
How do you connect with local communities and partners to make an impact?
We’re very intentional about choosing schools and communities that truly need our support. Building trust with local government units is key — it helps us understand their unique challenges and work together to create programs that really stick. For me, it’s about listening carefully, partnering sincerely, and being there every step of the way.
How do you see the ST Foundation’s work evolving in your country in the coming years?
I’m optimistic that the Foundation’s work in the Philippines will keep growing stronger. We’ll continue to adapt and improve our programs to bridge the digital divide. The Foundation will play an essential role in empowering people of all ages — helping both young and senior learners develop the digital skills they need to thrive in this fast-changing world.