The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) 13 (Caraga) has achieved a 96% penetration rate for its Free WiFi program, with 791 access points established across the region’s five provinces, as of November 15.
Speaking at Tuesday’s Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum in Butuan City, Lawrence Salang, DICT-13 chief of technical operations division, said the initiative provides residents with enhanced access to online education, communication, and government services.
The access points include 246 in Surigao del Norte, 172 in Surigao del Sur, 113 in Agusan del Norte, 89 each in Agusan del Sur and Butuan City, and 82 in the Dinagat Islands.
The program has achieved 100% municipal penetration in Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, the Dinagat Islands, and Butuan City while reaching 92% in Agusan del Norte and 86% in Agusan del Sur.
“The DICT-13 is committed to building an inclusive environment where individuals can leverage technology, regardless of socioeconomic status,” Salang said.
Beyond public WiFi hotspots, the program has connected 84 national government agencies, 13 local government offices, two state universities, 11 public schools, and three public health facilities.
From November 10 to 16, DICT-13 also facilitated modules for 40 LGUs, covering business permits, building and occupancy certifications, working permits, and fire code fee registrations.
On cybersecurity, DICT-13 conducted 100 advocacy seminars attended by 7,681 individuals, while its ICT competency programs reached 3,250 participants through 99 training sessions. (PNA)