MANILA, Philippines- Inaprubahan ng World Bank (WB) ang USD287.24 million loan para pondohan ang Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PIDP) na naglalayong ayusin at paghusayin ang access sa internet ng mahigit sa 20 milyong Pilipino.
Sinabi ni Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Uy na ang PIDP ay magde-deploy ng high-speed internet sa 772 sites sa Mindanao at palalawigin ang broadband coverage sa 10,259 underserved areas
“The project has the potential to increase the country’s gross domestic product by 1.38 percent while also enhancing the country’s cybersecurity defenses and bridging the digital divide, offering better access to education, healthcare, and essential government services,” ayon kay Uy.
Kasama sa proyekto ng ito ang development ng national fiber optic backbone na magpapalawak sa connectivity sa mga remote regions sa Visayas at Mindanao.
“With resilient underground cable installations, it aims to future-proof the country’s digital infrastructure while ensuring that public institutions and underserved communities can participate in the digital economy,” ayon sa Kalihim.
Ang PIDP ay inendorso ng National Economic and Development Authority Board at nakahanay sa Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.
“It is also seen to accelerate the DICT’s National Broadband Program which seeks to expand internet connectivity across the country,” ayon kay Uy.
“With the PDIP, the Philippines moves closer to a future where every Filipino, regardless of location, can benefit from fast, reliable, and secure internet access, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous country,” dagdag ng opisyal. RNT/SA
