DICT expands connectivity to remote areas in N. Mindanao
2024-Nov-20 20:00
EXPANDED CONNECTIVITY. Department of Information and Communications Technology officials in Northern Mindanao participate in the "Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas" in Cagayan de Oro City on Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2024). The agency announced improved internet access in remote areas of the region, with 13,462 free wi-fi access points established. (PNA/Ercel Maandig)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Information and Communications Technology in Northern Mindanao (DICT-10) has strengthened internet connectivity in remote and underserved communities, an official said Tuesday.
Speaking at the weekly "Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas," DICT-10 Director Sittie Rahma Alawi highlighted the agency's success in reaching 53 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in the region, including former insurgency-affected villages.
"They now have access to Free Wi-Fi internet, providing essential connectivity for education, communication, and government services," Alawi said.
While Camiguin province has no identified GIDAs, Alawi noted that the DICT assisted the province with its compliance for the Electronic Business One-Stop Shop program, which simplifies the application and renewal process for business permits.
To date, Northern Mindanao boasts 13,462 Free Wi-Fi access points, with the latest rollout completed in Misamis Oriental last month. Across the region, 516 locations host a total of 889 active access sites, according to Alawi.
The enhanced connectivity program aims to bridge the digital divide and improve access to technology in marginalized communities, Alawi added. (PNA)