ALL BARANGAYS IN CORDILLERA TO HAVE FREE WI-FI BY 2028
The DICT-CAR restores free WiFi for all connection in Dupligan, Tanudan, Kalinga. (Photo courtesy: DICT-CAR)
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continues to bridge the digital divide and provide internet connectivity to remote areas in the region. During the 2nd Quarter Regional Development Council Sub-Committee on Communications meeting on May 20, 2025, the DICT reported that there are a total of 1,474 free Wi-Fi sites across Cordillera, with some still being implemented. There are 140 free Wi-Fi sites in Abra, 123 in Apayao, 442 in Benguet, 76 in Baguio City, 287 in Ifugao, 284 in Kalinga, and 115 in Mountain Province. This quarter, 28 sites are expected to be installed in Apayao and 40 in Ifugao.
DICT said that as long as the funding continues, they are optimistic of attaining 100 percent coverage of public Wi-Fi in every barangay in the region by 2028. “By 2028, kaya nating all barangays within Cordillera ay may free Wi-Fi, either barangay centers, urban centers, or public school, depende na lang kung ano ‘yung available,” DICT Regional Director Reynaldo Sy said. DICT-CAR has proposed a P1.02 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 to sustain, expand, and implement various DICT projects, activities, and programs including the
provision of internet connectivity services in public places across the region. During the sub-committee meeting, Kelvin Asenas of
Converge Global Business Solutions also presented their products and services. He also presented their partnership with Starlink to expand internet connectivity in the Philippines and bring high-speed broadband internet to remote regions across the country.
(JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)
