TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region 2’s flagship initiative in Batanes has been named a finalist in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2025, the agency announced this week.
Regional Director Pinky T. Jimenez said the project, titled “Connecting the Islands of Batanes: From Isolation to Digital Inclusion,” was selected from more than 900 global entries and is competing under Category 2 – Information and Communication Infrastructure.
Jimenez said the initiative aims to overcome Batanes’ long-standing digital divide by deploying over 120 high-speed internet hotspots powered by satellite technology, now operational across all six municipalities of the province.
“This project represents a major step in bridging digital gaps in far-flung areas. We are proud to champion inclusive connectivity that empowers local communities, particularly in places like Batanes, where access has long been a challenge,” she said.
Hotspots have been installed in key locations such as municipal and barangay halls, the provincial capitol, Batanes General Hospital, rural health units, schools, the public market, ports, airport, provincial library, national government offices, the weather station, disaster response units, and public parks.
“With stronger connectivity, we are not just installing internet access, we are opening doors to better healthcare, digital learning, disaster resilience, and efficient governance,” Jimenez added.
The WSIS Prizes, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), recognize outstanding digital projects that leverage ICTs to support sustainable development goals.
DICT Region 2 urged the public to support the project by voting online until April 30.
Interested voters may register and cast their votes through this link: https://bit.ly/WSIS2025Vote. Under Category 2, voters are encouraged to select “Connecting the Islands of Batanes: From Isolation to Digital Inclusion” – DICT Region 2.
Jimenez said that if the project wins, it would mark a major international recognition of the Philippines’ efforts to advance digital inclusion in underserved communities. (ALM/PIA Region 2)
