SENATOR Paolo Benigno ‘Bam’ Aquino IV on Monday emphasized the urgent need to strengthen internet connectivity in public schools nationwide, calling it a crucial part of the Marcos administration’s education agenda.

Speaking at a public hearing, Aquino cited a report from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), which found that internet access remains a persistent problem in schools across the country.

“When we began passing the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act in 2017, and after the law was implemented in 2018, we have already spent ₱18 billion,” Aquino said.

“So, there’s an expectation that after so much time and investment, this law should be implemented properly,” he added.

Aquino invited public school teachers to share how internet access affects their work and students’ learning.

Wilfredo Santos, a teacher from the Department of Education in Marikina, said the free internet service provided by the Department of Information and Communications Technology often does not work properly, forcing schools to rely on private providers like Globe and Smart.

“The internet is very beneficial to us because we use it for class records, reports, and meetings,” Santos told Aquino.

The senator stressed that ensuring reliable free internet access in schools is not just about connectivity, but about empowering teachers and students with the tools they need to succeed in a digital world.