In a bold move to bridge the digital divide and empower communities through connectivity, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has announced plans to scale up its Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP)—targeting 50,000 free WiFi zones nationwide.
Currently operating over 18,000 public internet hotspots, the DICT aims to triple that number in the coming years. These free WiFi zones are strategically placed in government offices, public schools, state universities and colleges (SUCs), TESDA training centers, public hospitals, health clinics, and barangay reading hubs. Soon, connectivity will also reach airports, seaports, and major transportation terminals, making digital access more seamless for Filipinos on the move.
“Our vision is to make internet access a basic right, not a privilege,” said DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy. “This expansion is not just about technology—it’s about inclusive growth, educational equity, and digital empowerment.”
Connecting the Nation’s Most Isolated Communities
The expanded WiFi program specifically targets geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, providing crucial internet access where traditional service providers cannot reach. By deploying satellite internet solutions, the DICT is working to bring connectivity to 10,000 to 15,000 remote schools by the next academic year.
To further bolster digital inclusion, the DICT has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) to launch ‘JuanSIM ng Bayan’—an initiative that will distribute one million free SIM cards to learners and teachers in underserved communities. These SIMs are tailored for areas with little to no existing internet infrastructure, ensuring that no student is left behind in today’s increasingly digital world.
Why It Matters
The need for reliable internet access has never been more evident. From remote learning to e-governance, access to the web is now an essential utility. Through programs like FPIAP and JuanSIM, the government is building a foundation for digital literacy, economic mobility, and community resilience.
As the Philippines marches toward a more connected future, the DICT’s nationwide expansion plan represents more than just free WiFi—it’s a lifeline of opportunity for millions of Filipinos.
