Filipino-led edutech firm Bitskwela has launched BitDev, the country’s first blockchain-enabled developer microlearning (DML) platform, designed to simplify the process of creating, testing, and deploying Web3 applications for aspiring and early-stage software developers.
The launch comes in response to a critical talent gap revealed in the 2023 Worldwide Blockchain and Web3 Developer Statistics report, which found that only 203 of the Philippines’ 190,000 software developers are focused on blockchain development.
BitDev aims to address this shortage by helping transform existing Filipino Web2 developers into Web3-ready builders.
“At Bitskwela, we believe in bridging the gap by tapping into the potential of our already talented Filipino Web2 developers. Our vision is to transform the Philippines into a hub of world-class blockchain builders, and the BitDev platform is a step closer toward that,” said Jiro Reyes, Bitskwela Chief Executive Officer.
Making Web3 development easier for Filipino developers
Photo shows (from left:) Ms. Camille Puentespina, Bitskwela CPTO; Mr. Jiro Reyes, Bitskwela CEO; and Mr. Michael Yanga, Dr. Yanga’s Colleges Inc. (DYCI) during the signing of a partnership agreement to integrate BitDev into DYCI curriculum.
Powered by a blockchain-enabled Integrated Development Environment (IDE) used globally by developers, BitDev helps overcome the key challenges that often deter Web2 developers from exploring Web3.
The platform eases the steep learning curve of blockchain concepts, helps users understand language constructs during syntax-building and compiling, and teaches them how to manage gas fees when interacting with blockchain networks.
“BitDev is designed by developers for developers. Our goal is to make the platform as easy as possible to navigate the world of Web3. This achievement marks Bitskwela’s role in helping the Philippines keep up with the rising blockchain technology across the globe,” said Camille Puentespina, Bitskwela Chief Product and Technology Officer.
Through BitDev, learners can create real-world Web3 projects such as smart contracts, decentralized applications (DApps), cryptocurrency wallets, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and even their own blockchains. The platform’s Live Editor offers a hands-on coding environment that supports multiple scripting and programming languages, including JavaScript, CSS, HTML, Python, Solidity, and Move.
BitDev also offers Web2 development courses using the same languages, further bridging skills from traditional development to blockchain development.
Academic partnerships expand blockchain learning for students
To expand its reach among aspiring developers, Bitskwela has partnered with leading universities such as Dr. Yanga’s Colleges Inc. (DYCI) and the Philippine Women’s University (PWU).
“The partnership of Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc. with the visionary Bitskwela is a breakthrough in advancing blockchain technology. It excellently and effectively addresses critical social concerns of transparency, accountability, and integrity through an advanced and modern approach. Teaching this to the youth will make them the vanguards of truth and integrity at present and in the future,” said Michael Yanga, President of DYCI.
Bitskwela plans to integrate BitDev into university curricula, offering self-paced technical modules, blockchain-issued certifications, and opportunities for students to build their own Web3 applications. Courses are available at student-friendly rates through developer.bitskwela.com.
“By enhancing digital literacy among future web developers, BitDev increases the employability of Filipino IT students — all while encouraging their participation in the expansion of blockchain development in the Philippines,” said Vince Edralin, Bitskwela Chief Operating Officer.
