Citing the need to upgrade the country’s digital connectivity, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) board led by President Marcos has approved some P16.1 billion allocation for the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP).

According to the NEDA website, the approved funds, which cover the adjustment cost for the parameters of the nine other ongoing government projects, aim to strengthen the country's cybersecurity.

NEDA chief Arsenio Balisacan said the budget approval would speed up the upgrade of broadband connectivity, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) or remote barangays.

The P16.1-billion PDIP funds will be financed through the official development assistance (ODA) from the World Bank. It was primarily aimed at enhancing the country’s broadband connectivity and bringing high-speed internet links to as far as the GIDAs.

It was also intended to augment the country’s vital digital infrastructure to bridge the gap among individuals, households, and businesses, stimulate private sector investments, and strengthen capacity for cybersecurity and protecting critical information infrastructure.

Early last week, the World Bank called on the Philippine government to increase its investment in broadband infrastructure following reports that the country lags behind its Asian neighbors in internet speed, affordability, and access.

“The Philippines needs reforms and increased investment in broadband infrastructure,” the World Bank said.

The country’s digital infrastructure project, which is anchored on DICT’s National Broadband Program, involves the construction of a public broadband infrastructure network across the Philippines.

This network comprises five major components: backbone network, middle-mile network, access network (last-mile), network security, and project management support.

"Broadband services have already opened up numerous opportunities for Filipinos, from work-from-home arrangements to digital access to critical public and private services, including the latest technological tools such as artificial intelligence," Balisacan said.

"This project will also enable us to connect more Filipinos to markets and networks, spurring economic development,” he added.

Aside from the PDIP, the Board also approved adjusting parameters for nine ongoing infrastructure projects related to enhancing internet connectivity.

The changes involve the project scope, cost, extension of the implementation period, and loan validity.

“The adjustments to these ongoing infrastructure projects were necessary to ensure their successful completion, advancing our national efforts to expand and upgrade our infrastructure, improve connectivity, and create more jobs,” Balisacan said.