DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy and Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, the principal author of Republic Act No. 10844 that created the DICT, led the program launch which saw the simultaneous activation of the Free Wi-Fi sites in Barangay Calo-oy and in five campuses of the University of Antique , namely Sibalom Campus, Tario Lim Memorial Campus, Libertad Campus, Caluya Campus, and Hamtic Campus.
Secretary Uy announced that this is only the beginning, because a total of 150 sites will be activated across the province. This initiative will expand the reach of Broadband ng Masa and will boost the nation’s connectivity. For her part, Senator Legarda highlighted the importance of ICT infrastructure, systems, and resources to ensure universal access to quality, affordable, and secure ICT services. She joined the launching ceremony to promote accessible internet in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas , while addressing connectivity challenges in her home province of Antique.
Secretary Uy confirmed that the DICT will expand this initiative to benefit other parts of the country in the succeeding months. This aligns with the Marcos administration’s strong stand that connectivity, and ultimately digital transformation, is a key agenda for the Philippines in the next six years.