DICT Closes Digital Divide In 438 GIDA Sites Across Six Provinces

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has successfully bridged the digital divide in 438 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) through satellite broadband connectivity.

The installation and activation in the provinces of Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Quezon, and Pangasinan were completed within 30 days, marking the fastest VSAT installation in the Philippines. I Photo: Philippine Information Agency

The installation and activation in the provinces of Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Quezon, and Pangasinan were completed within 30 days, marking the fastest VSAT installation in the Philippines.

This program is part of DICT's National Broadband Project, aimed at providing connectivity to 65 percent of Filipinos who currently lack internet access.

The DICT is committed to offering every Filipino access to vital ICT infrastructures and services while promoting the sustainable growth of ICT-enabled industries that can generate more job opportunities.

DICT Secretary Ivan Uy commented on this achievement, saying, "This milestone underscores DICT's dedication to digital transformation in GIDA regions. Residents in Northern Luzon can now easily access essential digital services through high-speed broadband."

He continued, "By providing high-speed internet connectivity to these GIDA sites, this project equips micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the provinces with the tools needed to participate in the thriving e-commerce landscape."

In addition to enhancing e-commerce in these areas, Secretary Uy hopes that improved connectivity will also facilitate online education and transform remote regions into digital communication hubs.

Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos stated that his agency ensured the security and quality of installation sites, saying, "As the agency responsible for all cybersecurity-related functions, the CICC conducted security assessments in collaboration with DICT during site inspections."

The CICC also took charge of coordinating the deployment of VSATs to ensure strict compliance with industry standards. DICT collaborated with internet provider Stellarsat Solutions Inc. and is powered by Kacific Broadband Satellites to achieve this significant milestone.

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