Children and senior citizens gathered at SM City Baguio for an interactive learning session on Artificial Intelligence. Organized in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology – Cordillera Administrative Region, the program bridged generations, creating a space where generations could learn together, ask questions, and discover how AI can be used responsibly in everyday life despite class suspensions.
Bridging the Digital Divide Across Generations in Baguio
Learning knows no age when emerging technology enters the community. At SM City Baguio, children and senior citizens came together to discover the possibilities of Artificial Intelligence during an interactive learning session held in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology – Cordillera Administrative Region. Recognized for the growing role of AI in everyday life and the importance of making digital learning accessible to all generations, the session created a space where generations could learn together, ask questions, and discover how AI can be used responsibly in everyday life.
More than a simple introduction to modern software, the program focused on practical applications. Participants were introduced to the basics of AI through interactive discussions and demonstrations, designed to make the technology easier to understand and more accessible. Throughout the session, participants actively engaged with DICT-CAR resource speakers, explored the capabilities of AI, and learned practical ways to navigate emerging digital technologies. For older adults, the curriculum emphasized digital confidence and safety, while younger attendees explored creativity and problem-solving through technology. The learning session brought together participants from different generations, providing them with an opportunity to discover how AI works, explore its practical applications, and better understand how emerging technologies can be used responsibly in their everyday lives.
From kids to seniors, it only goes to show na yung technology ay walang pinipiling edad. Very inclusive siya,
said DICT-CAR Engineer Katherine Aguilar, highlighting how the curriculum successfully united participants across age brackets.
Practical Digital Safety and Creative Exploration for All Ages
While children experimented with digital creativity, senior participants focused heavily on online security and threat awareness. For senior citizens, the session offered a chance to become more comfortable with digital technology while learning important lessons on online safety and scams, gaining practical insights on how AI can be used safely and responsibly in everyday life.
Senior participant Cheryl Alquiza proudly showed her certificate after completing the AI learning session led by DICT-CAR at SM City Baguio, sharing how the discussions helped her become more aware of potential risks in the digital space. We learned so much information… Sometimes, we are very vulnerable to scams,
Cheryl shared.
For younger attendees, the session offered a glimpse into futuristic applications that extend far beyond basic internet searches, serving as an opportunity to explore AI as a learning and creative tool, encouraging curiosity and digital awareness at an early age. Ten-year-old Jacob Jimenez, a Grade 5 student, was eager to explore more. Ten-year-old Jacob Jimenez raises questions during the AI learning session, exploring how Artificial Intelligence can support learning and creativity. I want to know more about AI because it is futuristic technology. I tried a game where you have to use AI, and I also made an app,
Jacob shared.
His mother, Joan Jimenez, appreciated the opportunity for children to become more familiar with technology that is increasingly part of their everyday lives. For mothers and their children, the session provided an opportunity to learn about AI together and better understand how emerging technology can be used at home and in school. Joan also praised the venue for providing a secure environment during unfavorable weather conditions and class suspensions.
During these modern times, AI is very common. I think this is a good opportunity for them to broaden their knowledge and also experience how AI works. I am very thankful kasi ino-open ng SM City Baguio ang mga ganitong opportunities para sa mga kids. I hope na mas marami pang ganitong programs, Joan shared. She added: For us, despite the weather and the suspension of classes, we feel safe here at SM City Baguio while the kids are learning and participating in activities like this.
Community Engagement and the Future of Lifelong Digital Learning
More than simply introducing a new technology, the initiative reflects the importance of lifelong digital learning. As technology continues to evolve, SM City Baguio and DICT-CAR aim to help communities of all ages become more confident, informed, and responsible digital users. Meanwhile, senior citizens were given the opportunity to become more familiar with emerging technologies and discover how AI can be integrated into their daily digital experiences.
For SM City Baguio, the initiative reflects its commitment to creating meaningful experiences that bring communities closer, making the mall not only a place for shopping and entertainment, but also a space for learning, connection, and growth. Through initiatives like this, SM continues to share the Love of Community by creating opportunities where everyone, regardless of age, can learn, participate, and embrace the possibilities of a digital future.
