The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is urging lawmakers to pass the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act, alongside expanding its Free Wi-Fi for All Program, in a bid to strengthen the country’s mobile connectivity and address digital inclusion gaps.
The push comes in response to the Philippines’ slight dip in the 2025 GSMA Mobile Connectivity Index, where the country’s score fell by 0.52 to 67.69. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling the report “a timely reminder” of the ongoing need for affordable and reliable digital access across the nation.
“We see this report not as a setback, but as a guide,” said Aguda, reaffirming the department’s alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a digitally inclusive Philippines.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act promotes open-access policies, infrastructure sharing, and streamlined permitting for broadband deployment. Aguda said the measure is designed to lower operational barriers, boost competition, and reduce internet costs by 2028—especially benefiting underserved urban and rural areas.
To further support connectivity efforts, DICT is expanding the Free Wi-Fi for All Program, targeting remote communities. The initiative is bolstered by ongoing digital literacy and capacity-building programs aimed at empowering citizens to maximize connectivity benefits.
Aguda concluded that DICT remains steadfast in building strong digital foundations and ensuring that “no one is left offline,” with the agency’s programs directly addressing infrastructure, affordability, access, and digital skills as flagged by the GSMA Index.
