The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) marked the kickoff of the 2026 National ICT Month celebration with the launch of free Wi-Fi sites and the expansion of the Government Network (GovNet) in Western Visayas on Monday.
The Free Wi-Fi for All covers 2,020 sites across Western Visayas, of which 1,521 were activated under the Subscription of Internet Service and 499 sites under the Free Public Internet Access Program.
The sites provide free internet connectivity in public areas such as government hospitals, health centers, public schools, state universities and colleges, libraries, parks and transport terminals.
“Our mandate is clear: digital connectivity is no longer a luxury for the privileged few but is a basic fundamental right for every single Filipino. By placing free internet in our public plazas, libraries, and transportation terminals, we are bringing the digital world directly to the countryside,” Assistant Secretary for Special Concerns Christian Mark Guingcangco said in his message during the launching ceremony at the University of the Philippines Auditorium in Iloilo City.
Meanwhile, the GovNet, which already connects 70 government institutions within Iloilo City, was expanded with the signing of an agreement with the local governments of Miagao, Tubungan, Guimbal and Passi City.
Undersecretary for Special Concerns Faye Condez-De Sagon, in her message, said the initiatives that they launched embody the theme “Isang Dekadang Digital: Konektado sa Puso at Serbisyo.”
“Connectivity means more than providing people with internet; it means connecting people to opportunities. As we begin the National ICT Month, let us take pride in how far we have come. But let us also recognize that our work is far from finished. The next decade of digital transformation will demand greater collaboration, creativity, and commitment,” she said.
She added that over the past 10 years, DICT helped transform the digital landscape of the country, including the expansion of internet access in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas and establishing thousands of free Wi-Fi sites nationwide.
DICT has strengthened digital infrastructure through the National Broadband Program, secure digital future by strengthening cyber security posture through the National Cybersecurity Policies and enhanced cyber incident response capability. (PNA)