Manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has joined forces with InfiniVAN Inc. to develop a secure, nationwide government digital infrastructure in the Philippines, supporting the National Broadband Program (NBP) in the process. This collaboration aims to enhance connectivity across the nation and address the digital divide, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda stated that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with InfiniVAN will enable the exploration of more solutions to benefit Filipinos. The partnership is expected to improve both national and international connectivity, bolster the DICT's free Wi-Fi service, and promote infrastructure collaboration to enhance resiliency and redundancy.

Under the MOU, DICT and InfiniVAN will collaborate on potential projects to develop a government backbone system. This system is intended to serve as a foundation for internet connectivity needs across various government branches and offices. The network will align with DICT's 2023-2028 National Cybersecurity Plan, prioritizing cybersecurity and resiliency.

As part of this agreement, InfiniVAN and its Japanese parent company, IPS Inc., will provide certain domestic and international network infrastructures to the DICT. This includes access to dark fiber cores and capacities from InfiniVAN's nationwide fiber optic network, as well as IPS's international submarine cable network. The infrastructure will be integrated into the DICT's existing network and managed by DICT personnel following appropriate training and knowledge transfer.

Moreover, the MOU creates opportunities for establishing a direct connectivity link between Japan and Singapore through the Philippines, potentially serving as a secure communication channel between Japan and the Philippines. Secretary Aguda emphasized that this partnership represents a significant step toward achieving a digitally empowered Philippines.