Gov’t to spend P16 billion to boost internet connection in the Philippines

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board has approved the creation of a P16.1 billion project to expedite the country’s internet connection through digital infrastructure.

The Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP), which will be financed through official development assistance from the World Bank, aims to boost broadband connectivity nationwide, particularly in remote areas, and strengthen cybersecurity.

In addition, it also aims to enhance the country’s broadband connectivity, bring high-speed internet connection in disadvantaged areas, augment digital infrastructure to bridge the digital divide, stimulate private sector investments, and strengthen capacity for cybersecurity and for protecting critical information infrastructure.

The project, rooted in the National Broadband Program, a flagship initiative of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), involves the construction of a public broadband infrastructure network.

This network comprises five major components: backbone network, middle-mile network, access network, 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,” said NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, who also serves as the NEDA board vice chairperson.

“This project will enable us to connect more Filipinos to markets and networks, spurring economic development,” Balisacan further said.

In addition to the PDIP, the NEDA board approved adjustments to various parameters of nine ongoing infrastructure projects, seven of which are part of the infrastructure flagship projects list.

These changes pertain to project scope, cost, extension of implementation period, and loan validity.

These projects are the following:

• Local Governance Reform Project
• Infrastructure Preparation and Innovation Facility
• New Cebu International Container Port Project
• Light Rail Transit Line 1 South Extension Project
• Malolos-Clark Railway Project, Tranche 1
• Metro Manila Flood Management Project, Phase 1
• Reconstruction and Development Plan for a Greater Marawi, Stage 2
• Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project
• Panguil Bay Bridge Project

“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 stated. — Xander Dave Ceballos