DBM releases P3.68 billion for free WiFi program

MANILA, Philippines —  A P3.68-billion fund for the continuation of the free WiFi program nationwide has been released by the Department of Budget and Management.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the fund’s release to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

“We are hopeful that the DICT can proceed swiftly with the fund disbursement and expedite the program’s implementation,” Pangandaman said.

The additional fund will sustain the nationwide implementation of the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP), which will benefit 13,462 access point sites.

It will be sourced from the special account in the general fund-Free Public Internet Access Fund for 2024.

A P2.5-billion fund had been allocated earlier for the FPIAF, which is expected to be fully obligated this month.

Building and maintaining information and communications technology infrastructure such as towers, data centers and internet connections are part of the FPIAP.

The program also aims to maintain connectivity in public areas, such as schools, libraries, parks and transportation hubs, by providing Filipinos with reliable internet services for education and work.

Pangandaman said approving the additional budget within the government’s calibrated fiscal program would prioritize inclusive and accessible internet for all.