The fourth day of the Public Digitalization Program (PDP) was undoubtedly one of the most memorable, offering a unique blend of digital innovation, institutional hospitality, and spiritual depth in the stunning natural and historical setting of the Villuercas-Ibores region and the town of Guadalupe.
The morning of 19 of June began at the Geopark Interpretation Center in Cañamero, where the delegation was warmly welcomed by the team of APRODERVI (Association for the Promotion of the Villuercas-Ibores Region). Javier López Caballero, Director of APRODERVI, and Felipe Sánchez Barba, former Mayor of Guadalupe and an expert in municipal digitalization, presented local strategies for implementing digital transformation in rural contexts. With the support of Laura, a staff member at the center, participants were given 3D glasses to enjoy a striking immersive video about the Geopark’s natural and cultural treasures.
The highlight of the day came at noon, when EBS Foundation hosted an institutional lunch at the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe’s historic inn, elegantly adorned with the flags of Spain, Romania, the European Union, and EBS. During the meal, Carlos Ongallo, Director of the PDP, offered a heartfelt toast “to the Romanian people,” which was warmly echoed by Paula Diaconu, representing the Romanian delegation, who expressed her hope for a future of mutual cooperation between the two nations.
At 3:30 p.m., the Reverend Father Fray Guillermo Cerrato, OFM, Guardian of the Monastery, personally guided the group through the Chapel of Our Lady, where participants gathered around the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe in a deeply moving and spiritual moment. The group continued their tour through the choir and admired two original paintings by Francisco de Zurbarán, part of the Monastery’s remarkable artistic heritage.
The day also featured a thought-provoking lecture by Fray Vidal Rodríguez, OFM, entitled “Ethical Aspects of Artificial Intelligence in Public Administration.” His presentation sparked an engaging debate about the moral responsibilities and human-centered principles that must guide technological advancement in public institutions.
The evening concluded with a leisurely walk through the historic streets and squares of Guadalupe, offering participants a final taste of the town’s peaceful rhythm and authentic charm.
This was a truly unforgettable day, both physically and spiritually, leaving a lasting impression on all participants and strengthening the bonds between participants in this PDP.
