Marcos OK'd National Digital Connectivity Plan — DICT

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has approved the National Digital Connectivity Plan (NDCP). 

This was according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Monday. 

The agency said that the strategic framework was designed to accelerate the rollout of critical broadband infrastructure in the country. 

This will also lower internet costs for millions of Filipinos nationwide, the DICT added. 

Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave Gomez said regional consultations began in early 2024, and this was refined through successive sectoral discussions, inter-agency technical working groups, and technical board presentations. 

According to Gomez, Marcos took note that the Philippines has been playing catch up with ASEAN neighbors who have done this move as early as ten years ago.

''But with technology now more advanced and at less cost, he is confident we will soon be at par in terms of connectivity, speed and cost,'' Gomez said in a separate message.

''The National Digital Connectivity Plan envisions a digitally connected Philippines - one where connectivity is meaningful, inclusive, and transformative, anchored on universal access, affordability, higher speeds, and secure digital services for all Filipinos,'' Gomez said. 

He said the vision of having a digitally connected Philippines was operationalized through four strategic pillars. 

''First, we strengthen governance and regulatory framework to liberalize the industry, promote competition, and lower barriers to entry. Second, we expand universal access to ensure that no community - particularly those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas - is left behind,'' Gomez said.

''Third, we intensify infrastructure investment by leveraging public-private partnerships to accelerate nationwide rollout and scale. Finally, we ensure that our digital infrastructure and assets are resilient, capable of withstanding climate-related risks, disasters, and cybersecurity threats,'' he added. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA Integrated News