THE DEPARTMENT of Information and Communications Technology installed 79 WiFi hotspots in Surigao de Norte as part of its Free Wi-Fi for All project.

DICT Mindanao Cluster 2 Regional Director Sittie Rahma Alawi led the launch of the project and vowed to increase the public’s awareness of the free hotspots in the province.

The internet hubs are located in different municipalities.

The DICT said the project aimed to reinforce partnership and collaboration between the department and stakeholders, promote the use of ICT in the new normal, and share stories from program beneficiaries.

The Mindanao project is part of the government’s “ramped up” efforts to provide Internet connectivity in public places across the country, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

DICT Secretary Gregorio Honasan II said the department will fulfill its promise to provide internet connection for all Filipinos.

So far, 8,170 free Wi-Fi sites had been set up across the country.

“The DICT remains true to its mission to reach and provide Internet connectivity to all Filipinos wherever they are in the country. That is why this 2021, we further strengthened our connectivity initiatives in line with President Rodrigo Durterte’s directive for the DICT to connect the government to other governments, businesses and citizens – that includes the Free Wi-Fi for All Program,” he said.

Surigao del Norte 1st District Representative Francisco Jose Matugas II, co-author of Republic Act 10929 or the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, and 2nd District Representative Robert Ace Barbers thanked the department for its presence in the province.

Surigao del Norte Vice Governor Eddie Gokiangkee Jr. also encouraged Surigaonons to take advantage of the Free Internet connectivity.

“The online connection has brought us virtually closer,” he said.