The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is fast-tracking efforts to expand free WiFi access across the Philippines, aiming to increase public hotspots from the current 18,000 to 50,000, Secretary Henry Aguda announced in an interview with DZRH on Sunday.

Aguda said the initiative is in line with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s directive of "no Filipino left behind or no Filipino left online," emphasizing that internet access must be made universal — and safe — for every citizen.

“When President Marcos invited me to join the Cabinet, his marching order was clear: every Filipino should be online, and every Filipino should feel safe online,” Aguda said. “People should not feel anxious when they use the internet.”

To support this vision, DICT is working to meet the requirements of the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP), which mandates free internet services in public spaces. Aguda shared that the agency is pushing to more than double the number of WiFi hotspots within the year.

Expanding connectivity to remote areas

Recognizing that not all areas can be reached by fiber internet, Aguda said DICT will also launch the 'JuanSIM ng Bayan' initiative. Under this project, one million free SIM cards will be distributed, prioritizing disadvantaged communities, especially schools with no internet access. Around five million Filipinos are expected to benefit.

Additionally, DICT, in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd), is working to deploy satellite internet services to 10,000 to 15,000 remote schools, ensuring that even the most isolated communities can connect online.

“All available technologies will be deployed this year,” Aguda stressed. “Our priority is to make sure schools are connected by the next school year.”

Strengthening cybersecurity

Aguda also addressed rising concerns about cybersecurity threats, including hacking and financial crimes, noting that the government will soon introduce new policies aimed at creating a cleaner and safer internet environment.

“The internet should be used productively — for online learning, business, and connecting with Filipinos abroad,” he said. “If we allow malicious use to grow, telcos will continue to struggle in maintaining good service quality.”

Aguda emphasized that other countries have successfully curbed online scams, and the Philippines will soon begin adopting stricter policies to follow suit.