In a Facebook post, the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) has announced steps to strengthen and expand affordable internet access across the Philippines, particularly to support workers adopting work-from-home arrangements amid rising fuel and transportation costs.

With oil and fuel prices surging due to disruptions in a Middle East corridor, many Filipino workers are facing increasing financial strain from daily commuting expenses. In response, and in compliance with a directive from the President to ensure reliable connectivity to support flexible work arrangements, the DICT moved to address the growing need for accessible internet services.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda met with PLDT and Smart Communications Chairperson Manny V. Pangilinan to discuss measures aimed at making internet connectivity stronger and more affordable nationwide. The collaboration between the government agency and the telecommunications giant is intended to help ease the burden on workers by enabling them to work remotely, reducing both fuel consumption and traffic congestion in the process.

The initiative reflects the government's recognition that reliable and cost-effective internet access is essential not only for economic productivity, but also for the well-being of Filipino workers navigating the pressures of rising living costs.