The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recently announced a significant development that will positively impact academic institutions in Eastern Visayas. 

Under the Universal Internet Subscription for Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (UISGIDA) initiative, the DICT has launched 183 free Wi-Fi sites to provide students, teachers, and other stakeholders access to online educational resources and research materials. This will enable them to leverage the power of the internet to enhance their teaching and learning experiences.

The DICT has also launched 129 Technology for Education, Employment, Entrepreneurs, and Economic Development (Tech4ED). Moreover, a groundbreaking ceremony of the new DICT Regional Office and Biliran Provincial Office buildings, seven newly procured vehicle, Government Network (GovNet) projects, and 75 emergency telecommunications satellite facilities for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) offices in the region were also inaugurated. These initiatives will undoubtedly contribute to the region's growth and development by providing access to the latest technology and resources.

According to Felix S. Tabanao Jr., DICT regional director, this event is a significant milestone that testifies to the dedication of their mission and will serve as a cornerstone of ICT development in the region. He underscored, "This symbolizes more than just tools; they represent our commitment to harnessing the power of connectivity to drive positive change and empower individuals and our communities.”

Initiative updates

The DICT is set to distribute the emergency telecommunication satellite facilities to various DRRM offices nationwide. The equipment package includes a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) and network components, a solar power setup with a high-capacity battery, and satellite phones to aid in times of emergency. These facilities will be provided to 18 DICT offices, seven provincial DRRM offices (PDRRMO), three national government agencies, and 47 local DRRM offices.

They plan to build a digital transformation center (DTC) at their regional and provincial offices in Biliran. The center will provide training and workshops to enhance community members' digital literacy skills. Furthermore, a point-of-presence (POP) will be incorporated into the access point or physical location where two or more networks or communication devices share a connection.

The department is extending its services to isolated communities in the region by distributing seven vehicles to all provincial offices. These vehicles will enable the department to reach remote and underserved areas and provide necessary services. The vehicles have already been turned over to the provincial office of Northern Samar and the regional office, while some are still being processed for turnover.

They are currently in the process of handing over some equipment, which includes a wide range of tools and resources. Some of this equipment has already been distributed to Eastern Samar and local government units in Leyte.

Additionally, they are installing POP facilities in their offices to enhance their capabilities and productivity, including the early procurement activities and other document preparations for constructing new DICT buildings.

There are 111 operational free Wi-Fi sites in UISGIDA and 18 sites dedicated to providing internet connectivity in various municipalities. Additionally, 26 sites offer free internet services in public areas, such as state-run institutions, colleges, and universities. Moreover, through a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and DICT, 26 additional sites have been installed in the DRMMO to provide internet connectivity services.

"We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to our partners and stakeholders who attended the inauguration. More importantly, we would like to convey our gratitude to the Tingog Party List through the offices of House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Congresswoman Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, Congressman Jude A. Acidre, and all Tingog officials in Tacloban City for giving us priority in our projects,” said Tabanao Jr.

Message of support

May Joy E. Rosales, principal of Balud Elementary School in Capoocan, Leyte, expressed her appreciation to the DICT for choosing their school as one of the beneficiaries of the free Wi-Fi project. She underscored that “this project has been instrumental in shaping our learning experience and nurturing our passion for technology.”

She emphasized that through this project, “learners can easily access an array of educational resources regardless of their geographical location, including online courses, e-books, research materials, digital apps, and multimedia presentations,” transforming traditional teaching methods into more dynamic and engaging learning experiences.

Dr. Judith B. Jamadiao, Chancellor of Visayas State University in Alangalang, Leyte, represented by Sarah Chua, also extended their appreciation and gratitude as one of the recipients of the free Wi-Fi at a state university.

“Indeed, this project has a great impact, beneficial and favorable to our students, faculty, and staff. We look forward to further collaboration and enhancement of this project to serve our clientele better,” she said.

The DICT Eastern Visayas is at the forefront of ushering in a new era of digital technology. This development is anticipated to bring substantial growth marked by improved connectivity, empowerment, and abundant opportunities. Technological progress promises a brighter future for all residents and stakeholders, signifying a critical turning point in the region's progress. (AAC, PIA Leyte)