The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is set to overhaul its Free Public Internet Access Program to reduce costs and expand coverage.
DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy said the government currently spends ₱6.5 billion annually to maintain over 7,000 Wi-Fi hotspots, but the new plan could deliver faster internet to more areas for less. Under the proposed changes, the government may shift to long-term contracts with satellite providers, which could supply 200 Mbps connectivity to 10,000 public schools for just ₱1.5 billion—a potential savings of ₱5 billion.
The DICT also aims to boost free Wi-Fi access in underserved communities, targeting 50,000 total sites, including schools, libraries, hospitals, and local government offices. This initiative aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s “BroadBand ng Masa” program, which treats internet access as a vital public service for education, livelihood, and national development. | via Dann Miranda | Photo via PNA
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