DICT gets budget for digital infra projects; focused sites for enhanced broadband links include GIDAs

Responding to calls for government to invest more in upgrading the country’s digital connectivity, the President-chaired National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) board has approved a P16.1-billion allocation for infrastructure flagship projects, which include the DICT’s National Broadband Program.

The approved funds, according to the NEDA website, will be earmarked for the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project, including the adjustment cost for the parameters of the nine other ongoing government projects.

NEDA chief Arsenio Balisacan said the approval of the allotment for DICT’s broadband program will hasten the upgrade of broadband connectivity, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) or remote barangays in the country.

Strengthening cybersecurity is part of the objective of the robust digital infra project allocation, previous reports said.

The P16.1-billion PDIP funds, which will be financed through official development assistance from the World Bank, is primarily aimed at enhancing the country’s broadband connectivity and bring high-speed internet links to GIDAs.

It also intends to augment the country’s vital digital infrastructure to bridge the gap among individuals, households and businesses, stimulate private sector investments, strengthen capacity for cybersecurity, and protect critical information infrastructure.

Last week, the World Bank called on the government to increase its investment in broadband infrastructure as the country reportedly continues to lag behind its Asian neighbors when it comes to internet speed, affordability and access, creating an uneven landscape for digital participation.

“The Philippines needs reforms and increased investment in broadband infrastructure,” said a World Bank report.

The country’s digital infrastructure project, anchored on DICT’s National Broadband Program, involves the construction of a public broadband infrastructure network throughout the archipelago.

This network comprises five major components: backbone network, middle-mile network, access network (last-mile), network security, and project management support.

“Broadband services have already opened up numerous opportunities for Filipinos, from work-from-home arrangements to digital access to critical public and private services, including the latest technological tools such as artificial intelligence. This project will also enable us to connect more Filipinos to markets and networks, spurring economic development,” Balisacan stressed.

Aside from the PDIP, the NEDA Board also approved the adjustments to various parameters of nine ongoing infrastructure projects, which are related to enhancing internet connectivity.

The changes involve the project scope, cost, extension of implementation period, and loan validity.

“The adjustments to these ongoing infrastructure projects were necessary to ensure their successful completion, advancing our national efforts to expand and upgrade our infrastructure, improve connectivity, and create more jobs,” Balisacan said.