Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 21) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said it will bring digital connectivity to over 2,000 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) nationwide together with ComClark Network and Technology Corp.
The DICT and ComClark held the launch and ceremonial turnover of equipment of the Universal Internet Subscription for GIDA (UISG) Project on Tuesday.
“The Free Public Internet Access Program, under the Broadband ng Masa Initiative, seeks to bridge the digital divide and connect Filipinos to limitless opportunities the digital economy offers,” DICT Secretary Ivan Uy said.
“Our collaboration with ComClark for the UISG Project exemplifies our dedication to turning this vision into reality. We are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution reach every corner of our nation,” he added.
According to Benedicto Bulatao, chief operations officer of ComClark, they will provide 145 gigabytes of capacity for a mixed technology project that will bring internet access to remote regions.
Under the UISG project, fixed satellite communications (VSATS), fiber technology and satellite-communications-on-the-move terminals will be deployed to more than 2,000 GIDA areas. Around 1,400 areas with viable terrain will make use of the fiber technology, while fixed VSATS will service hilly and mountainous areas.
The project also seeks to help the national and local governments in disaster response.
“The deployment of SATCOM or satellite on the move terminals adds a layer of resilience to efforts,” Uy said. “These highly portable antennas…will ensure the availability of internet connectivity and emergency communications during calamities.”
DICT and ComClark said the overall UISG project costs ₱1.1 billion and currently has 4,741 active sites across the country. They said 97% of the sites have been activated and are expected to be completed by year-end.
The access points have already allowed the public to consume 806 terabytes of internet data.
The DICT chief said there are no restrictions in place yet to internet access since they want the users to enjoy the experience first.
However, if they see an abuse or slowed internet connection affecting user experience, they will have no choice but to limit access to productive use, like education and telemedicine.
“We’re hoping they will do self-regulation among themselves,\” Uy said. \”Pero kung di nila ma-control then we will have to impose policies like perhaps blocking certain access to certain sites.\”
Supply of the managed services between ComClark is implemented with We Are IT Philippines, Inc. and Telered Technologies and Services Corp.
DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy said there are 8,149 active sites as of this month under the Free Public Internet Access Program. The agency is confident it will reach the 15,000 target by year-end.
“By next year, we are on target to reaching 25,000 free Wi-Fi access points on top of what we have now,” he said.
