ON MAY 6, 2025, the Davao City Council approved on second reading the establishment of the city’s first public internet center, with a total proposed budget of P96 million.
Of the P96 million, P89 million will go toward construction, while P7 million will be allocated for the procurement of equipment.
The center will be built on a 746.38-square-meter lot within People’s Park and will serve as an extension of the City Library and Information Center. The location was finalized after consultations with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), the City Engineer’s Office, and the Interim Office of the City Architect, all of whom deemed it an ideal site for the project.
Councilor Bonz Andre Militar, who led the initiative, said the project aims to provide free or low-cost internet access to Dabawenyos, helping to bridge the digital divide and improve access to education, employment, health, and government services.
The center will feature high-speed internet, computer units, and trained staff to assist users in navigating digital platforms. Public Wi-Fi will also be available outside the center for those using their devices.
To use the services, individuals must secure a City Library card for an annual fee of P100, which will serve as their access ID.
“Naa tay gidesign na booking system kay para kadtong mga far-flung areas sa Davao City, pwede sila magbook daan (We've designed a booking system to allow people from far-flung areas of Davao City to reserve slots in advance),” Militar said, highlighting the center’s accessibility for remote communities.
If successful, the pilot project could lead to the creation of similar internet hubs in each district of the city. Barangays may also be encouraged to set up community Wi-Fi areas, depending on budget availability.
The project will move forward as soon as funds are released, marking a significant step toward improving digital connectivity in Davao City.
The ordinance was approved on second reading and is expected to be finalized in the next regular session. Jessalou A. Silpa, UM Intern