The House of Representatives has earmarked P5 billion for public schools and state universities and colleges (SUCs) nationwide to support a password-free internet access network of public Wi-Fi hotspots.

House Assistant Minority Leader and Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales said public learning institutions will be prioritized under the P5-billion allocation in the 2026 General Appropriations Act for the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP).

Gonzales said the new allocation supplements the P7.5 billion allotted for the FPIAP in 2025.

“We are counting on the program's expansion to boost access to online learning, distance education, and vital digital services, particularly in underserved and remote communities,” Gonzales said.

He added that the expanded public Wi-Fi network will allow residents of geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) to access critical online resources, including government skills-training platforms and employment services, which are key tools for securing sustainable jobs and livelihoods.

“Strengthening digital infrastructure in off-grid and hard-to-reach communities is essential to closing persistent development gaps and ensuring all Filipinos can participate in the digital economy,” Gonzales said.

Republic Act No. 10929, or the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, mandates the nationwide installation of free internet access points in public areas, including parks, libraries, barangay halls, elementary and secondary schools, SUCs, hospitals, airports, seaports, and land transport terminals.

Funding for the FPIAP comes from Spectrum User Fees collected by the National Telecommunications Commission from private telecommunications companies.

The Philippines currently ranks 11th worldwide in total number of internet users, estimated at 97.5 million, according to global research platform DataReportal.