Makati City: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has implemented nearly 19,000 free WiFi sites and laid over 3,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable as part of the National Broadband Program. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to address the country's connectivity issues.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced at the Infrastructure Forum of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) that these projects are evidence of the government's commitment to improving connectivity for its citizens. Aguda emphasized that the government's prompt response to the President's order has directly benefited the public.

Currently, there are 18,849 free WiFi sites in 6,183 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) and 3,026 kilometers of National Fiber Backbone infrastructure. This network is designed to deliver high-speed internet across 20 provinces and serve over 1,000 government agencies.

By 2028, the DICT aims to connect all 10,875 underserved barangays in the country by increasing accountability among telecommunications companies and ensuring affordable and secure digital access for households. The passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and the E-Governance Act has been pivotal in establishing a more inclusive and responsive digital ecosystem.

In observance of National ICT Month in June, the DICT expanded its efforts by deploying 153 new access points in the Batanes Islands and 53 in Tawi-Tawi, aiming to connect the most remote locations in the country. Aguda stated that the initiative is not just about infrastructure but about building a more informed and inclusive society.