DBM OKs release of P3.681B for free WiFi program

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Thursday said it approved the release of P3.681 billion to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to sustain the implementation of the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) nationwide.

In a news release, the DBM said the amount is chargeable against the Special Account in the General Fund-Free Public Internet Access Fund (SAGF-FPIAF) for Fiscal Year 2024.

The P3.681-billion additional fund is on top of the P2.5 billion already allocated for the FPIAF this year, which is expected to be fully obligated this month.

"Tuloy na tuloy po ang ating free WiFi Program (Our Free WiFi program continues). By approving this additional budget within our calibrated fiscal program, we reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing inclusive and accessible internet for all," said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

"As mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we will ensure that every citizen, saan mang sulok ng Pilipinas, makikinabang sa ating digital transformation initiatives," Pangandaman added.

(As mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we will ensure that every citizen from every corner of the country will benefit from our digital transformation initiatives.)

The DBM said the released fund is expected to benefit a total of 13,462 Access Point (AP) sites in various locations nationwide.

Part of the FPIAP, the DBM said, is the building and maintenance of ICT infrastructure, such as towers, data centers, and internet connections.

The program aims to maintain connectivity in public areas like schools, libraries, parks, and transportation hubs, providing Filipinos with reliable internet services for education, work, and daily life activities.

"With the budget released, we are hopeful that the DICT can proceed swiftly with the fund disbursement and expedite the program's implementation," said the Budget chief. — VDV, GMA Integrated News