BUSINESS

U.S., Phl plan AI-powered public WiFi network

Mico Virata · Sep 12, 2026, 12:12 AM

US Trade and Development Agency deputy director Thomas Hardy (third from left) and Benedicto Bulatao, chief operating officer, ComClark Network and Technology (fourth from left) led in the signing of an agreement for the funding of a pilot project deploying WiFi equipment at six public sites to assess market demand, technical requirements, commercial viability and financing options before a potential nationwide rollout. The event was held during the USTDA-organized Luzon Economic Corridor at the Grand Hyatt, Taguig, Metro Manila on Thursday, 10 September 2026. — Photograph courtesy of USTDA

The United States and the Philippines are exploring a nationwide network of AI-enhanced public WiFi access points that could reach up to 7,840 locations by 2030 and provide improved internet access to more than 600,000 Filipinos.

The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has partnered with Philippine information and communications technology company ComClark Network and Technology Corp. to fund a pilot project assessing the viability of a paid public WiFi network.

The agreement was announced Thursday, 10 September 2026 during the USTDA-sponsored Luzon Economic Corridor Investment Forum at the Grand Hyatt, BGC, in Taguig, Metro Manila.

WiFi equipment in six public sites

The pilot will deploy WiFi equipment at six public sites to assess market demand, technical requirements, commercial feasibility and financing options before a potential nationwide rollout.

California-based Connectivity Capital LLC will conduct the study for ComClark.

USTDA deputy director Thomas R. Hardy said the project would support US technology exports while helping the Philippines expand its digital infrastructure.

“By facilitating the deployment of world-class US AI and connectivity solutions in the Philippines, USTDA is advancing America’s global technology leadership while enabling our partners to build superior digital infrastructure,” Hardy said.

The planned network would provide public WiFi at community centers, schools and other strategic locations, including areas along the Luzon Economic Corridor.

The service is intended to deliver reliable and affordable broadband capable of supporting data-intensive applications, including consumer artificial intelligence tools.