Digital Rights Conference Brings Barangay Leaders Together to Advocate for a Collective Digital Future

KUALA LUMPUR - Digital rights advocates from across the Asia-Pacific region gathered from August 26 to 28, 2025, for the third edition of the Digital Rights in Asia-Pacific (DRAPAC) conference, held at the AICB in Kuala Lumpur. The event,  co-hosted by The Architects of Diversity (AOD Malaysia), the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ Malaysia), Sinar Project, Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY), Freedom Film Network (FFN) and EngageMedia.

Among the attendees were Kagawad Jesse Granada, a Barangay member from Kanluran Kabubuhayan, Nagcarlan, and SK Chairperson Gabriel Lopez, who both highlighted the importance of local governance in advancing digital rights and freedom of information.

Kagawad Granada, 68, a retired computer technician and former Operations Manager in the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, emphasized the need for accessible technology and digital policies that cater to local communities. He shared insights from his decades of experience working with technology in various international settings, stressing the role of local officials in ensuring that digital rights are upheld at the grassroots level.

Lopez, 23, a fund accounting analyst and National Convener of the Model SK Network, also contributed significantly to the discussions, focusing on youth engagement and the importance of transparency in government. A former Area Coordinator of Youth-led Network for the Right to Information (YNFORM), Lopez stressed the need for global cooperation to secure the right to information in the digital space. He was also a grantee of DARAPAC25 fellowship from EngageMedia

The conference’s thematic tracks focused on Shaping Power, Driving Change, Strengthening Movements, Securing Our Future, and Beyond Boundaries, Beyond Limits, all of which aimed to strengthen digital rights advocacy and improve policymaking at the national and regional levels. Discussions also centered around building resilience, securing digital futures, and exploring innovative strategies to drive systemic change in the digital age.

Lopez expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to engage with global leaders in digital rights. "We hope to partner with everyone here to improve our communities and protect people's rights to freedom of information and digital rights," he said.

The conference concluded with a call for continued collaboration, as stakeholders in the digital rights movement work together to build a more inclusive and equitable digital future for all.