ANTIQUE – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has officially rolled out its “Free Wi-Fi for All” project in Antique, providing residents across the province with greater access to internet connectivity for education, livelihood, and government services.
The project, launched Tuesday at the University of Antique’s main campus in Sibalom town, covers 269 locations equipped with 798 Wi-Fi access points distributed across the province’s 18 municipalities.
DICT Assistant Secretary Christian Mark Guingcangco said the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by providing free and reliable internet access to communities, particularly those in geographically isolated areas.
“It is through the provision of free, reliable Wi-Fi in every community in the municipalities of Antique that the people have better access in terms of education, livelihood, and government services,” Guingcangco said during the launch.
Antique Gov. Paolo Everardo Javier welcomed the initiative, describing internet connectivity as a necessity, especially for residents living in the province’s remote barangays.
He noted that most of Antique’s 590 barangays are located in upland areas, where access to communication services remains limited.
Javier added that improved internet connectivity would also enable residents in these communities to seek immediate assistance during emergencies and natural calamities.
DICT Western Visayas Officer-in-Charge for the Office of the Assistant Regional Director Jimuel Española encouraged school administrators to maximize the use of the free internet service to enhance students’ learning experiences.
He said the free Wi-Fi access points have been installed in schools, transport terminals, health facilities, and other public areas throughout the province.
Meanwhile, San Jose de Buenavista Municipal Economic Enterprise and Development Officer Darcy Bungay said the free internet service is available 24 hours a day at the town’s public utility vehicle terminal and public market.
The implementation of the project was made possible through the support of Senator Loren Legarda and Antique Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda. (PNA)
