MANILA – Only two state universities can currently connect to the internet free of charge under the free Wi-Fi project of the government.
They are Aklan State University and Caraga State University, according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology.
Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara was dismayed.
A total of 112 state universities and colleges are out to benefit from the DICT’s Pipol Konek! Free Wi-Fi Project.
According to Angara, P327 million was allocated for the project for all SUCs this year.
“Tayo po ay nadidismaya sa napakabagal na pagpapatupad ng libreng Wi-Fi para sa ating mga mag-aaral,” said the vice chair of the Senate committee on finance.
“The Internet keeps us connected with our family and friends. Malaking tulong ito lalo na sa mga estudyanteng malayo sa kani-kanilang pamilya,” he added.
Angara wants DICT acting secretary Eliseo Rio to explain the cause of the delay and the steps being undertaken to fast-track the free Wi-Fi rollout.
“Ensuring free internet connectivity in SUCs can help the students with their research, school assignments and projects,” Angara said. “Kung libre ang Wi-Fi, malaki sana ang kanilang matitipid sa halip na gumastos sila sa computer shops o sa pagpapa-load para makapag-internet.”
The Pipol Konek! Free Wi-Fi Project has a total budget of P1.7 billion for 2018, including P327 million for SUCs and P1.36 billion for public places./PN
