Zamboanga City (PIA) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-9, in collaboration with DITO Telecommunications, unveiled a new telecommunications tower in Sacol Island, this city.
The tower enhances communication connectivity, allowing the free flow of information within the community which supports the sustainable development goals and bridges the gap between the community and the government, enabling residents to access government services like PhilHealth, GSIS, SSS, and more via smartphones.
With the established mobile signal and connectivity, the DICT team was able to roll out eGov PH app in Landang Laum and sustain a video call with participants of the regional consultation for the National Emergency Communications Plan in mainland Zamboanga City, which is around 5 kilometers away from Sacol Island.
Under the banner of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, DICT launched “Bayang Digital ang Bagong Pilipinas” during the national Information and Communications Technology month celebration.
This campaign aims to empower communities with relevant information through communication technology, driving digital inclusivity, access, and connectivity for a digitally empowered Philippines.
Jasmin Mohammadsali, regional communication officer of DICT-9 and BASULTA, emphasized the transformative potential of ICT during the Kapihan na Zamboanga.
She stressed the importance of connectivity, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, as part of the Smart Village initiative to equip communities in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
“Underlying the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, ICT grants potential to transform lives and is an effective tool to initiate change within ourselves and to contribute to society,” she said.
The Bayang Digital ang Bagong Pilipinas campaign is a call to the government and the nation to establish an accessible environment.
DICT 9 is committed to providing connectivity, internet access, digital tools, and promoting digital skills within the community, fostering a cyber-safe environment across the Zamboanga Peninsula.
“We want every Filipino to be heard and included,” Mohammadsali said, underscoring the pivotal role of digital access and connectivity in nation-building. (EDT/MLE/DBE-GIP/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)
