Marcos tasks DICT to create connectivity in remote, isolated areas

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. directed the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to establish connectivity in remote and isolated communities across the country.

Marcos made the directive during the sectoral meeting about the National Digital Connectivity Plan (NDCP) 2024-2028 in Malacañang on Monday.

“Let us establish first the connectivity. That’s more important than anything else,” Marcos said in a press release.

He specifically asked for an improved internet connectivity in remote and isolated communities.

Marcos further suggested rolling out the connectivity program in areas where the government could provide free Wi-Fi.

He said his administration could help by providing connections to government facilities.

“We will now provide that market by giving [access] to government facilities, barangay offices, LGUs, etcetera. And that will establish the market,” Marcos said.

“Once nasanay ang tao na mayroon ng ganyan, we can put them already. We can put the allowance for Wi-Fi already in the budget. Kasi nandiyan na (It’s already here.) We can put it in the budget of the government agency. Maliit lang naman (It’s just small),” he added.

The Presidential Communications Office said the NDCP would serve as the country’s strategic blueprint to bring universal and meaningful digital connectivity throughout the country.

Asked about the budget of the NDCP, DICT Secretary Ivan Uy on Monday said the agency would still discuss this with the Department of Budget and Management.

“We will submit to the President. We have to work with DBM to discuss the phases and program. Identify the targeted GIDA areas [Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas] and prioritize,” Uy told GMA News Online. —KG, GMA Integrated News