The free public WiFi program has received an increased allocation in the proposed 2021 budget on top of funds for the Department of Information and Communications Technology, a senator said Sunday.
“When you talk about build, build, build, you don’t just look at roads, you don’t just look at buildings, but you also look at the actual internet infrastructure because that will provide greater investments,” Sen. Sonny Angara, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee said.
“With bigger investments coming in to the country, this will mean more higher paying jobs and more economic activity.”
Some P2.667 billion was allocated for free WiFi in public spaces, Angara said.
“Expanding the access and reliability of our internet connections will go a long way in helping our children transition easier, especially for those who cannot afford to pay for their own subscriptions,” he said.
Government is expected to save P720 million in internet subscription expenses in the first year of implementation of the NBP, according to Angara’s estimate.
The Senate and House of Representatives ratified on Dec. 9 the P4.5-trillion 2021 national budget.
