PRESIDENT FERDINAND R. Marcos Jr. pledged to improve internet speed and connection in Eastern Visayas, especially in far-flung areas.
Marcos made the commitment during a meeting with the Regional Development Council (RDC) in Tacloban City on Friday, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) news release on Saturday.
Marcos said the government has developed a new system to ensure reliable broad band connectivity in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in the region.
“I took note of the issues on the internet. We have decided on the system that we are going to use for the internet, to distribute to the GIDAs internet service,” he told the RDC, as quoted by the PCO.
"Basta't may GIDA na, hindi gaano namang kalayo sa fiber optic, puwedeng kabitan (As long as there is a GIDA that’s not too far from the fiber optic, it can be installed). We will put a tower, let's say regular tower," he said. “But there are new technologies that are available that we can take advantage of, or can provide internet service kahit na medyo malayo-layo doon sa fiber optic sa mga island na may satellite na (even though it's a bit far from fiber optic on the islands that have satellite).”
Marcos said the government would maximize the use of new technologies to improve connectivity in remote areas.
Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan expressed support for Marcos’ plan, stressing that improved connectivity would significantly benefit the education sector, particularly in the GIDA communities in the province.
"I confirm also for that internet connectivity, especially in the GIDA areas, since it will also help the education sector," Tan said. "We really want and we really pray na magkaroon ng internet connection ang mga GIDA areas natin (that our GIDA areas will have internet connection)."
In November 2024, the Department of Information and Communications Technology set up over 1,048 Wi-Fi access points in public places in Eastern Visayas, prioritizing remote areas.
Apart from internet issues, Marcos and the RDC discussed other regional concerns, including water and electricity supply, infrastructure, and health services, the PCO said.
Marcos vowed that his administration would continue to work hard to improve the living conditions of residents in Eastern Visayas. (Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)
