In a significant boost to digital connectivity, the Caraga region has reached a 96% WiFi penetration rate through the installation of 791 access points across its five provinces. This achievement was highlighted by Lawrence Salang, the chief of the technical operations division at DICT-13, during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum held in Butuan City on November 19, 2024. The initiative aims to enhance access to online education, communication, and government services for residents throughout the region.
The distribution of access points includes 246 in Surigao del Norte, 172 in Surigao del Sur, 113 in Agusan del Norte, 89 in both Agusan del Sur and Butuan City, and 82 in the Dinagat Islands. Notably, the program has achieved full municipal coverage in Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Islands, and Butuan City, with Agusan del Norte at 92% and Agusan del Sur at 86%.
Salang emphasized DICT-13’s commitment to fostering an inclusive digital environment, ensuring that technology is accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic status. In addition to public WiFi hotspots, the program has connected 84 national government agencies, 13 local government offices, two state universities, 11 public schools, and three public health facilities.
From November 10 to 16, DICT-13 supported 40 local government units (LGUs) with modules for various services, including business permits, building and occupancy certifications, working permits, and fire code fee registrations. Furthermore, the department has been proactive in cybersecurity, conducting 100 advocacy seminars that reached 7,681 individuals, and ICT competency programs that trained 3,250 participants through 99 sessions.