Rep. Tobias Tiangco has welcomed the release of the P3.68 billion budget but urges DICT to enhance the nationwide rollout of the Free Public WiFi program.
“The release of this budget signifies our strong commitment to expanding internet access for all Filipinos through the Free Public WiFi program. However, I hope we continue to expand these access points to ensure sustained and widespread improvements in internet connectivity across the nation,” Tiangco, chair of the House committee on information and communications technology, said.
Tiangco emphasized that DICT must take direction from President Bongbong Marcos’ SONA pronouncements since the administration clearly outlined the goals for digital transformation in the country.
Tiangco added “DICT’s role in achieving the goals set forth by President Bongbong is crucial and the committee will provide the necessary support as long as we see that the implementation of programs are conducted effectively.”
He also urged DICT to review current implementation of ICT programs in the country and prioritize the more urgent gaps.
“The Free WiFi program levels the playing field for internet users in terms of access so DICT needs to ensure the sustained expansion of this program,” he said.
The solon also noted that he wants to determine the impact of current government efforts in improving access to internet in the country.
“I recognize that we have much to improve to match other Asian countries in internet penetration and quality. DICT needs to prioritize making current programs truly beneficial for all Filipinos, especially those who can’t afford internet plans,” he said.
Currently, the Free WiFi program has served over 10M unique user devices across its 13,462 access points.
In 2023, the Philippines ranked 6th out of 42 Asian countries with the most number of internet poor based on the World Data Lab Internet Poverty Index.
A separate Digital 2023 publication by DataReportal reported that over 30 million Filipinos are non-users of the internet.
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