The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has authorized the release of P3.681 billion ($65.13m) in additional funding to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to sustain the implementation of the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) nationwide in the Philippines.
This additional funding will benefit a total of 13,462 Access Point (AP) sites across the country. The FPIAP aims to provide free Wi-Fi access in public areas such as schools, libraries, parks, and transportation hubs.
“Tuloy na tuloy po ang ating free Wi-Fi Program. By approving this additional budget within our calibrated fiscal program, we reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing inclusive and accessible internet for all,” Sec. Mina said.
“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,” Secretary Pangandaman added.
The released fund is chargeable against the Special Account in the General Fund – Free Public Internet Access Fund (SAGF-FPIAF) for FY 2024. This brings the total allocation for the FPIAP in 2024 to P6.181 billion.
The FPIAP involves the building and maintaining of ICT infrastructure, such as towers, data centers, and internet connections. The program aims to provide reliable internet services to Filipinos for education, work, and daily life activities.
“Naiintindihan po natin na kailangan talaga ito ng ating mga kababayan. With the budget released, we are hopeful that the DICT can proceed swiftly with the fund disbursement and expedite the program’s implementation,” urged the Budget Secretary.
