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House Deputy Minority Leader and Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera has successfully fought for the inclusion of a P7.5-billion allocation for the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) in the final version of the 2025 national budget.

The allocation, approved by the Bicameral Conference Committee and subsequently ratified by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, will be managed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to ensure the program’s expansion and sustainability.

The enrolled 2025 GAB worth P6.352 trillion is currently awaiting President Marcos' signature.

Herrera welcomed the inclusion of the special provision, which was lifted from a letter she earlier sent to Speaker Martin Romualdez, through House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Ako-Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, seeking the inclusion of the program’s allocation in the 2025 national budget.

“This funding will help bridge the digital divide and ensure more Filipinos, particularly those in underserved and remote areas, have access to reliable internet connectivity. It reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive society,” Herrera said.

The P7.5 billion, sourced from spectrum users fees collected by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), will enable the DICT to maintain existing free Wi-Fi sites and establish new ones across the country. 

It will also support the construction of critical ICT infrastructure, including backbone, middle-mile, and last-mile connectivity, as well as data centers and communication towers.

Herrera emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Marcos’ directive during his 2024 State of the Nation Address to prioritize digital inclusivity and transformation.

“This program supports the President’s vision of enhancing economic growth through improved digital connectivity,” reckoned the veteran solon from Quezon City. 

The FPIAP provides free, reliable internet in public spaces, such as parks, libraries, schools, hospitals, government offices, and transport hubs. 

To ensure efficient implementation, the provision includes a cap on administrative expenses at three percent of the total allocation.

Herrera also underscored that no fees will be charged to users connecting to public internet access points under the program.

“This program is not just about access—it’s about creating opportunities for education, employment, and community development,” Herrera said.

She expressed confidence that the allocation would play a crucial role in addressing the growing demand for internet access while promoting connectivity, inclusivity, and national development.