What if 60% of Filipino households had reliable internet access by 2028?
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is determined to make this a reality. Currently, only 44% of Filipino households have internet access, but the DICT’s National Broadband Plan 2.0 aims to boost this figure significantly over the next four years.
Ambitious Goals for National Connectivity
Maria Victoria Castro, Director for the National ICT Planning, Policy, and Standards Bureau, emphasized the importance of the National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2.0 during a regional stakeholders’ consultation in Legazpi City.
“The NBP 2.0 serves as the blueprint for deploying fiber optic cables and wireless technologies to improve the internet in our country. Our Philippine Development Plan has set targets, and by 2028, we aim to connect 60% of Filipino households to the internet,” Castro explained.
Strategic Partnerships and Consultations
To achieve these ambitious targets, the DICT is fostering collaboration between government agencies and private sector stakeholders. Focus group discussions and consultations have been conducted nationwide, including in Clark, Leyte, Zamboanga, and now Legazpi City.
These consultations aim to harmonize efforts and address gaps in the digital infrastructure landscape.
Rachel Ann Grabador, DICT-Bicol regional director, highlighted the strategic importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in expanding the country’s investment capacity for digital infrastructure.
“The updated NBP, or NBP 2.0, will emphasize PPPs to boost our digital infrastructure,”
she said.
Progress in the Bicol Region
In the Bicol region, the DICT has already installed 2,225 Free Wi-Fi for All units across 830 locations. The recent three-day NBP 2.0 consultation in Legazpi City, held from May 21-23, gathered representatives from national government agencies, local government units, the private sector, and students.
They discussed topics like universal and meaningful connectivity, enhancing digital infrastructure governance, and intensifying strategic collaboration and investment in digital connectivity.
Key Highlights of the National Broadband Plan 2.0
- Goals:
- Increase the percentage of households with internet access from 44% to 60% by 2028.
- Serve as a roadmap for upgrading and expanding digital connectivity across the country.
- Emphasis:
- Highlight the strategic importance of PPPs in expanding investment capacity for digital infrastructure.
- Strategically harmonize efforts of public and private sectors to address gaps in improving the digital infrastructure landscape.
- Process:
- Conduct nationwide consultations with stakeholders from government agencies, local governments, the private sector, and students.
- Consultations have been held in Clark, Leyte, Zamboanga, and Legazpi City, with upcoming events in Tuguegarao City and the National Capital Region.
Summary of NBP 2.0
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Goal | Increase household internet access from 44% to 60% by 2028. |
| Key Strategies | Deploy fiber optic cables and wireless technologies. |
| Emphasis | Public-private partnerships (PPPs) for investment in digital infrastructure. |
| Consultation Process | Nationwide stakeholder consultations to gather input and harmonize efforts for digital connectivity. |
Future Prospects
The DICT’s efforts through NBP 2.0 reflect a comprehensive approach to bridging the digital divide in the Philippines. By 2028, the goal is to see a significant increase in internet access, which will facilitate better communication, education, and economic opportunities for millions of Filipinos.
In Summary
The National Broadband Plan 2.0 represents a strategic roadmap to enhance the Philippines’ digital infrastructure. Through public-private partnerships and nationwide consultations, the DICT is committed to connecting 60% of Filipino households to the internet by 2028.
This ambitious plan aims to promote sustainable development, social justice, and economic prosperity, ensuring that more Filipinos have access to the opportunities provided by the digital age.
By working together, the DICT and its partners aim to create a more connected and prosperous Philippines, where internet access is a reality for the majority of households.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.