Instead of allocating load allowances, this municipality in Ilocos Norte will be offering free internet connection not just for students and teachers but for its entire town.
Piddig, Ilocos Norte Mayor Eddie Guillen revealed their plans of connecting all its schools and villages with free internet connection even in its remotest areas.
Guillen said the municipal government has allotted around P16 million for the three-year project starting this year. The fund will be sourced from the percent development fund of the Piddig government.
“Instead of giving P100 load allowance to our students weekly, why don’t we just install a dedicated internet line to benefit all our constituents?” said Guillen who is eyeing to inaugurate the project before the end of the month.
The free internet program covers the whole town of Piddig which aims to connect and power up both primary and secondary schools with no internet connectivity.
Using a fiber connection system to ensure a faster and reliable internet, the project also aims to provide connection to residents who may wish to venture into e-commerce.
Guillen reported that a point-to-point internet connection in Piddig town is currently being installed in village halls and schools.
After the three-year contract, the amortization will be reduced from P6 million to PHP250,000 per year.
"This will save us a lot in the long term," he added.
As of this posting, the wireless internet service provider tower is being installed at the municipal hall building where the smaller antenna receivers installed in government offices and public places will get their power. (With a report from the Philippine News Agency)