Converge ICT, the country’s premier pure end to end fiber Data and Internet service provider, recently announced the completion of the free Wi-Fi infrastructure for the list of areas the Department of Information and Technology (DICT) has contracted under the Free Public Internet Access Program – Free Wi-Fi for All.
Previously, the DICT engaged all telco players through public bidding, to provide free public Wi-Fi to Filipinos in an effort to make available “free, open and high-quality” Internet access to users. The free Wi-Fi must be accessible in places like health
centers, hospitals, parks, and schools, among others. Converge ICT is the first to fulfill service requirements, overcoming challenges and fast-tracking completion ahead of other contracted DICT vendors.
DICT awarded 186 sites to Converge ICT including key areas like Manila, Pasay City, and Quezon City. "We are glad to have been able to fulfill the task the DICT has given us," said Ronald G. Brusola, Chief Technology Officer of Converge ICT. "We are one with the government in providing free high-quality Internet access to Filipinos, and we will use our broad and strong infrastructure to give users seamless Internet experience they deserve."
DICT mapped out public areas that will be provided with free broadband Internet access in all municipalities and cities nationwide, especially in far-flung areas. This service is available in public plazas and parks, public libraries, schools, colleges, and universities; rural health units and government hospitals; train stations, airports, and seaports; and national and local government offices.
As of June 30, 2019, the Philippines has 67 million internet users from a population of over 100 million (Based on Internet World States https://www.internetworldstats.com/stats3.htm ).
"Converge ICT believes that access to the Internet is a fundamental need, which drives us to further expand our network by forging partnerships and strengthening our infrastructure." said Jesus C. Romero, Chief Operating Officer of Converge ICT.
The Internet is now a tool to accelerate economic, social, and educational opportunities. Beyond casual browsing and research, it is an important component for organizations to move forward with digitalization, and for citizens to communicate and transact with the government. The opportunity to give free Internet access makes it feasible to advance socio-economic agenda that will lead to nation-building.