Public schools and state universities across the country are slated for an internet upgrade after Congress allocated P5 billion to expand the nation’s network of free WiFi hotspots, a lawmaker said.

House Assistant Minority Leader Christopher Sheen Gonzales of Eastern Samar said public learning institutions will be the priority for the P5-billion funding under the 2026 General Appropriations Act. The budget is intended to bolster the Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP).

The new funding comes on top of the P7.5 billion allotted for the program 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 in a statement.

The expanded network aims to reach people in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Gonzales cited that high-speed access will allow residents in these “off-grid” locations to use government skills-training platforms and employment services.

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

The program is mandated by Republic Act 10929, also known as the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act. The law requires free internet access in various public spaces, including parks, libraries, barangay halls, hospitals and transport terminals such as airports and seaports.

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

The Philippines currently has an estimated 97.5 million internet users, ranking 11th worldwide in total users, according to data from research platform DataReportal.