Photo courtesy of DICT Region V
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said it was expanding digital connectivity and government services in the Bicol Region, where more than 1.2 million people were already using the eGovPH application.
Cyryl Montales, head of the agency’s information strategic communication and creatives unit in Bicol, said the region had recorded 1,271,547 active users of the eGovPH app, which provides access to multiple government services through a single platform.
She said the DICT continued to work with local governments and lawmakers to improve digital infrastructure, strengthen e-governance and expand digital literacy programs across the region.
Among the agency’s priorities were the expansion of the Free Wi-Fi for All Program, wider adoption of the eGovPH app, the rollout of the eLGU System, the establishment of more Digital Transformation Centers and stronger cybersecurity initiatives.
Montales said internet connectivity projects remained focused on geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, with most new installations planned for public schools and other public spaces.
She added that the agency’s digital literacy programs served students, out-of-school youth, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, government workers, private employees, freelancers, micro, small and medium enterprises and persons deprived of liberty.
Montales also underscored the importance of reliable communications during emergencies, noting that the DICT leads the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to support disaster response operations.
She said lawmakers in the region had expressed support for the agency’s initiatives, which aim to improve internet access, strengthen cybersecurity, expand digital skills and make government services more accessible to Bicolanos.
