ILOILO City – The city government has requested the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the reactivation of the free internet connection that used to be available in the city’s plazas and public areas.
Mayor Jerry Treñas, in his letter dated July 26 and addressed to DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, said the department’s initiative of providing free internet access under the Free WiFi for All program plays a vital role in achieving the objective of Republic Act 10929, or the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act.
“We acknowledge the significant efforts made by the DICT in expanding internet accessibility across the country, and we are proud to have been a beneficiary of this program in the past. The provision of free WiFi in our public places has enabled our citizens to stay connected, access vital information, and participate in the digital economy. It has also facilitated learning opportunities, supported local businesses, and fostered a sense of community in our city,” Treñas said.
The mayor learned that the internet connection has been inactive for a “quite considerable period” and numerous requests have been received by his office urging for its revival.
Treñas said reliable internet connection was critical amid the challenges of the recent health pandemic since it allows access to health information, government services, and work-from-home opportunities.
“Reactivating the free WiFi service would be a significant step in ensuring that our community remains resilient and well-equipped for such challenges,” he added.
Western Visayas has 45 active WiFi sites, all initiated by the regional office as of June 2 this year.
Two are in plazas in Aklan; 31 in public hospitals spread out in Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo; three in national government agencies, with two in Capiz and one in Iloilo; and nine sites at the provincial capitol with four in Capiz and five in Guimaras. (PNA)/PN
