The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) expanded its Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) to Tawi-Tawi, setting up 53 internet sites across 25 locations in the province.
Powered by Data Lake Inc., Handlink Inc., and We Are IT Philippines Inc., the sites provide free internet access to Tawi-Tawi residents, who face the country’s poorest connectivity challenges.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda highlighted the FPIAP’s goal of connecting underserved communities like Tawi-Tawi, stressing that quality internet is vital for daily life, including online transactions and education.
Aguda believes the FPIAP will create new opportunities in various sectors and anticipates its expansion to more far-flung areas, furthering the government’s goal of digital inclusion.
Ookla’s 2024 data shows the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, including Tawi-Tawi, with an internet speed of 16.2 Mbps.
In contrast, Metro Manila boasts an average download speed of 63.33 Mbps, revealing a significant gap in internet quality compared to other areas, such as Tawi-Tawi.
In addition to setting up free Wi-Fi, DICT launched a telemedicine platform in collaboration with mWell’s medical app at a regional health unit, bringing digital healthcare services, including teleconsultation, to Tawi-Tawi residents.