President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged government, private sector, and local communities to work together to address broadband gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
Speaking at the recent Philippine Telecommunications Summit 2026 in Pasay City, Marcos Jr. said while cities enjoy fast and reliable internet, many rural and remote areas remain poorly connected, limiting access to education, jobs, and economic growth.
He said delays in permits, right-of-way issues, fiber cuts, and power interruptions continue to widen the digital divide, stressing that no single sector can solve these problems alone.
The President cited government reforms led by the DICT, including the Konektadong Pinoy Act, to make internet services faster, cheaper, and more competitive.
He also highlighted the Free Public Internet Access Program with over 9,500 active free Wi-Fi sites nationwide and the Bayanihan SIM Card Project, which has distributed more than 89,400 subsidized SIM cards to students, teachers, and indigent communities.
Marcos Jr. thanked telecom firms and local governments for their support and called for stronger cooperation to expand connectivity and bring digital opportunities to more Filipinos.IMT
