Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has mandated the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to enhance internet coverage in public schools. Marcos expressed concern over the current state of connectivity, noting that only about 60 percent of schools have access to the internet.

According to Philippines News Agency, during an interview following his visit to the Epifanio Delos Santos Elementary School in Malate, Manila, for the opening of the 2025-2026 school year, Marcos emphasized the need for expanded internet services. He highlighted electricity issues as a significant obstacle to achieving broader digital access in schools, stating that efforts are underway to address these problems, particularly in underserved areas.

The President also stressed the importance of collaboration among government departments to enhance education infrastructure and services across the nation. This initiative aims to support the approximately 27 million students expected to enroll from preschool to senior high school for the School Year 2025-2026. This school year marks a return to the traditional June-to-March calendar, following a temporary shift during the coronavirus pandemic. The academic year is set to conclude on March 31, 2026.