THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is actively expanding its digital services and ICT reach, particularly in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (Gidas) in the Davao region.
During the Kapehan sa Bagong Pilipinas on November 19, 2024, DICT-Davao Technical Operations Division Chief Engineer Eduardo Tuquib shared with Davao media that the agency is addressing ICT-related challenges through initiatives such as establishing digital transformation centers, known as Tech4Ed, and providing free WiFi access.
Tech4Ed centers function as ICT hubs offering various services, including training programs, co-working spaces, and internet connectivity.
“Before nagkaroon tayo ng malawak na digital divide [because] hindi pa natin na-install yung free WiFi [and] hindi pa tayo naka-establish ng mga Tech4Ed centers. [However], right now, marami na tayong centers na nag accommodate ng mga training para sa mga estudyante, constituents na walang device o walang connectivity… Mayroon din tayong free wifi sites na na-establish, especially doon sa mga GIDA sites (The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is actively expanding its digital services and ICT reach, particularly in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in the Davao region. However, now we have many centers providing training for students and constituents without devices or internet access. We’ve also set up free WiFi sites, especially in GIDA locations)," Tuquib said.
Tuquib added that these projects are key priorities under the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP), playing a critical role in empowering communities and bridging the digital divide by providing essential technology access.
Jose Benjamin Valencia II, focal person for DICT-Davao’s Free WiFi and National Broadband Project, reported that 93 Tech4Ed sites are already operational across municipalities in the region, with approximately 56 training sessions conducted so far.
As of November 2024, DICT is in the process of acquiring 243 additional free WiFi locations. These include 20 sites for public institutions and universities, 27 for municipalities in Davao Oriental, and 196 for other municipalities across the region. DEF