CONGRESS has earmarked an extra P5 billion to further expand the country’s network of public Wi-Fi hotspots, giving more Filipinos access to password-free internet.

This was confirmed by House Assistant Minority Leader and Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales.

Gonzales said the new allocation is included in the proposed 2026 General Appropriations Act to strengthen the Free Public Internet Access Program, with public elementary and high schools, as well as state universities and colleges (SUCs), designated as priority sites.

“Under the 2026 General Appropriations Act, Congress allocated an additional P5 billion to support the Free Public Internet Access Program, with public schools and SUCs prioritized,” Gonzales said.

The funding builds on the P7.5 billion allocated for the program in 2025, signaling continued legislative support for nationwide digital connectivity.

Gonzales said the expanded program is expected to improve access to online learning, distance education, and essential digital services, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

“We are counting on the program’s expansion to boost access to online learning, distance education, and vital digital services, especially in underserved communities,” he added.

He emphasized that residents in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas stand to benefit most, as the program will connect them to critical online resources, such as government skills-training platforms and employment services.

“Strengthening digital infrastructure in off-grid and hard-to-reach communities is essential to closing persistent development gaps and ensuring all Filipinos can participate in the digital economy,” Gonzales said.

The FPIAP is mandated under Republic Act No. 10929, or the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, which requires nationwide rollout of free internet access points in public spaces, including parks, libraries, barangay halls, public schools, SUCs, hospitals, airports, seaports, and land transport terminals.

Funding for the program comes from Spectrum User Fees collected by the National Telecommunications Commission from private telecom companies.

Data from global research platform DataReportal shows the Philippines ranks 11th worldwide in total internet users, estimated at 97.5 million.