The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continues to fast-track its free public WiFi project following the agreement they have signed with the United Nations.
DICT Acting Sec. Eliseo Rio said that they have partnered with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) for the roll-out of its “Pipol Konek” project.
“The Department is optimistic that our goals of providing free internet access and promoting knowledge-building among our citizens will soon be realized,†said Rio during the signing ceremony on March 22.
For their part, UNDP believes that they will be able to achieve the plan through their experience with international models, as well the support that the government is giving for the project.
“Access to the internet is access to services and information. UNDP is pleased to assist DICT to meet the national objective of bridging the digital divide and leaving no one behind,” said UNDP Philippines Rep. Tito Mitra.
UNDP is now set to conduct analysis on target areas, as well as monitor the impacts of the said project.
They are also expected to provide technical training in order to achieve the outputs.
Under the Republic Act 10929, DICT is assigned to ensure that there is free internet service in every national and local government offices, public hospitals, parks, libraries, and transport terminals.
