BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has successfully connected every province and town in the Cordillera to the internet through its National Backbone Plan (NBP), enabling local government units (LGUs) to streamline public services and save residents from long, exhausting trips to government offices.

“The NBP backbone and GovNet expansion illustrate how CAR’s (Cordillera Administrative Region) digital infrastructure has matured by mid‑2026. The NBP provides the high‑capacity backbone links, while GovNet extends reliable connectivity into government offices across multiple provinces,” DICT-Cordillera Regional Director Jimmicio Daoaten said.

He said the integration ensures that public institutions are not only connected but supported by resilient infrastructure, advancing the region’s digital governance and inclusion goals.

Data shows the number of integrated sites grew from 72 in 2023 to 79 in 2024, and then jumped to 102 in 2025. Five additions brought the total to 107 sites by July 2026.

Daoaten said GovNet sites consistently deliver 99 percent service uptime.

“This ensures uninterrupted operations for government offices. The successful procurement of operations and maintenance services secures sustainability, providing technical support for continued growth,” he said.

Recent reports indicate 100 percent of the region’s 77 municipalities are now connected to the internet. Out of 611 connected villages, 284 are geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, with 52 more sites targeted for expansion.

“By mid-2026, the program achieved its largest milestone yet, with 1,437 active sites in all 77 localities of CAR and 718 barangays. Within this total, 63 free Wi‑Fi access points were formally declared as of June 30, 2026, leveraging GovNet sites as bandwidth sources under the regional initiative. This integration further strengthened the link between public connectivity and government infrastructure,” he added.

The Cordillera NBP backbone also provides internet to 365 schools, connecting students in remote areas to global information.

During disasters, local communities use these school Wi-Fi connections to report and contact family members elsewhere.

Beyond expanding internet access, DICT Cordillera distributed 39,753 subscriber identity module (SIM) cards with free data to Department of Education students and staff.

“The SIM cards are provided with free load for internet data and calls that they can use while they are within their respective areas. That means they do not need to load or spend for load to connect to the internet or communicate with those outside their areas,” Daoaten said.

He said that where fiber lines are not feasible, the agency deployed government-funded Starlink units to give schools and communities free internet.

“These initiatives are provided by the government through the DICT to ensure that nobody is left behind, so that even those in GIDA areas and in far-flung communities and schools will be connected to the world,” he added.

“This record number represents the most extensive coverage to date, underscoring the program’s transformation into a region-wide service that connects thousands of people daily. The trajectory highlights not only numerical growth but also the deepening of digital inclusion, as FW4A‑FPIAP (Free Wi-Fi for All-Free Public Internet Access Program) continues to expand its reach and reliability across the Cordillera.”

Despite the region’s challenging terrain, the government has ensured that everyone stays connected. Alongside providing free Wi-Fi, the DICT also educates residents on how to use it effectively.

From January to June alone, the DICT trained 3,742 residents in basic to advanced digital skills, focusing on mobile internet use and scam prevention.

The agency also conducted 88 awareness and advocacy training, served 5,993 users at its managed digital centers, and upskilled 180 government workers and 450 students in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital literacy.

The DICT also implemented a technical training program in graphic design, transcription for Persons with Disabilities and website development, producing about 200 graduates.

“The government’s initiative is continuing until everyone has been reached. Our President has specifically mentioned that internet connectivity is no longer a privilege, but is a right that must be provided, that is why there are lots of initiatives being done,” Daoaten said. (PNA)