10 June 2026 – Digital tools help migrant families stay connected and access vital services, but online spaces present real risks. Migrant seniors, especially women, face a rising threat from cyber scams, identity theft, and fraud. Lack of technical literacy and accessible education often stand in the way of safe digital adoption.
In her opening remarks, Consul General Emma Sarne of the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary (PCG Calgary) mentioned that while digital tools make it easier for seniors to stay connected with loved ones and access important services, they also expose users to new risks, especially to financial scams and fraudulent activity.
To bridge the gap, PCG Calgary, in partnership with AxeIT Consulting Inc., Filipino Tech Professionals of YYC, and the Alberta Securities Commission, conducted a capacity-building workshop for Overseas Filipino seniors and their families, in celebration of National ICT Month 2026 titled : Click, Connect, Protect: Digital Literacy Lab for Seniors Safe, Inclusive, and Secure Digital Empowerment for Migrant Seniors and Families on 10 June 2026 at the Dr. Rizal Hall, Philippine Consulate General Calgary. The event was also broadcast via Facebook live.
The Digital Literacy Lab was a 2-hour, hands-on workshop consisting of guided presentations on cybersecurity and fraud awareness from distinguished resource speakers including Mr. Cal Campbell, Securities Investigator of the Alberta Securities Commission (Fraud and Scam Awareness), Ms. Euniz Brown, Founder of AxeIT Consulting Inc. (Cybersecurity Awareness), and Ms. Dina De Belen, Co-Founder and Director of Filipino Tech Professionals YYC (Digital Basics). The presentations were followed by hands-on coaching with the assistance from the Filipino Tech Professionals of YYC volunteers, and fun activities during the short health break from wellness coach Ms. Len “Coach Len” Zuniga of Wellness Innovate.
The program was designed to strengthen digital confidence and empower seniors and families—especially women—to safely and independently use communication platforms, online banking, remittances, and telehealth. Beyond technical skills, the initiative supports mental well-being by directly reducing the fear, shame, and anxiety connected to technology use and online scams. END
