Tacloban City: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. pledged to improve internet speed and connection in Eastern Visayas, especially in far-flung areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos made the commitment during a meeting with the Regional Development Council (RDC) in Tacloban City on Friday, as per the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) news release on Saturday. Marcos stated that the government has developed a new system to ensure reliable broadband connectivity in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in the region.
'I took note of the issues on the internet. We have decided on the system that we are going to use for the internet, to distribute to the GIDAs internet service,' he told the RDC, as quoted by the PCO. He explained that as long as there is a GIDA not too far from the fiber optic, installation is possible. New technologies can provide internet service even to islands far from fiber optic connections.
Marcos emphasized the government's plan to maximize new technologies to enhance connectivity in remote areas. Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan expressed support for Marcos' plan, highlighting the benefits improved connectivity would bring to the education sector in GIDA communities.
In November 2024, the Department of Information and Communications Technology set up over 1,048 Wi-Fi access points in public places in Eastern Visayas, with a focus on remote areas. Besides internet issues, Marcos and the RDC discussed other regional concerns, including water and electricity supply, infrastructure, and health services, according to the PCO. Marcos vowed that his administration would continue efforts to improve the living conditions of residents in Eastern Visayas.
