Govt allots P16.1B for digital infrastructure project

MANILA, Philippines — The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has approved a budget of P16.1 billion for the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project, through the initiative of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

This, however, is way below the P240 billion suggested by the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to enhance internet infrastructure and P60 billion annual allocation for DICT to lease towers, build last-mile facilities, and optimize existing telco facilities to provide internet access in 125,000 public facilities, including schools, hospitals, and health centers, over four years.

The initiative aimed to further develop the country's internet infrastructure to boost broadband connectivity nationwide, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged or remote areas, while also strengthening the nation's cybersecurity.

PSAC likewise recommended commercial cooperation between the government and the private sector to construct 35,000 additional cell sites.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during the 18th NEDA board meeting earlier this month, gave the go-ahead for a $288 million funding for the project.

According to the National Telecommunications Commission, there are only 22,405 cell towers in the country.

National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan answers questions from the media after attending the Economic Journalist Association of the Philippines (EJAP) meeting in Intramuros, Manila on July 8, 2024. PHOTOS BY MIKE ALQUINTO National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan answers questions from the media after attending the Economic Journalist Association of the Philippines (EJAP) meeting in Intramuros, Manila on July 8, 2024. PHOTOS BY MIKE ALQUINTO National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan answers questions from the media after attending the Economic Journalist Association of the Philippines (EJAP) meeting in Intramuros, Manila on July 8, 2024. PHOTOS BY MIKE ALQUINTO National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan answers questions from the media after attending the Economic Journalist