(PNA photo by Annabel Consuelo J. Petinglay)
The Department of Information and Communications Technology launched its Free Wi-Fi for All program in Antique on Tuesday, expanding internet access across the province’s 18 municipalities.
DICT Assistant Secretary Christian Mark Guingcangco said 798 access points had been installed in 269 locations, including schools, transport terminals, health facilities and other public spaces.
He said the project was intended to improve access to education, livelihood opportunities and government services, particularly in communities with limited connectivity.
The official launch was held at the University of Antique’s main campus in Sibalom.
Antique Gov. Paolo Everardo Javier said internet access was especially important for residents of upland barangays, which make up a large part of the province’s 590 villages.
Javier added that improved connectivity could help remote communities seek assistance more quickly during disasters and other emergencies.
DICT Western Visayas official Jimuel Española urged school administrators to encourage students to use the free service for their studies.
In San Jose de Buenavista, free internet is available around the clock at the public utility vehicle terminal and market, while the provincewide rollout was supported by Sen. Loren Legarda and Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda.