The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has partnered with InfiniVAN Inc. to improve internet connectivity and digital services nationwide.
The DICT and InfiniVAN have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore building a secure, nationwide digital network for the government and support the implementation of the National Broadband Program (NBP).
“This collaboration is the first step that allows us to explore more solutions to provide connectivity for Filipinos, especially those in GIDAs,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda.
He added that the partnership “will enhance both national and international connectivity, support the DICT’s free Wi-Fi service, and promote infrastructure collaboration to strengthen resiliency and redundancy.”
Through the MOU, the DICT and InfiniVAN will work together on potential initiatives to develop a government backbone system that may serve as the foundation for the internet connectivity requirements of various government branches and offices. This could enable the DICT to improve Free Public Wi-Fi services, particularly in unserved, underserved, and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).
The network will be built in accordance with the DICT’s 2023-2028 National Cybersecurity Plan and will be executed with careful consideration for cybersecurity and resiliency.
Under the agreement, InfiniVAN and its Japanese parent company, IPS Inc., will make certain domestic and international network infrastructures available to the DICT. This includes dark fiber cores and/or capacities from InfiniVAN’s nationwide fiber optic network and IPS’s international submarine cable network.
This robust infrastructure will be integrated into the DICT’s existing network and will be fully managed and operated by DICT personnel after receiving proper training and knowledge transfer.
The MOU also creates opportunities to study the establishment of a direct connectivity link between Japan and Singapore via the Philippines, which could serve as a secure communication channel between Japan and the Philippines, with network redundancy supported by the PDSCN.
“This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a critical step toward a digitally empowered Philippines,” Aguda said. “We are committed to providing secure, sustainable, and reliable digital services to our people, and this government network, built with careful consideration for cybersecurity and resiliency, will be the backbone of that vision. By working with InfiniVAN and IPS, we are not only addressing the immediate connectivity needs of our government but also laying the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive digital future.”
