The Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP) has secured USD$288 million (or over Php16 billion) in funding from the World Bank, following its approval from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
Presented by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the initiative aims to improve the broadband connectivity across the Philippines, with a focus on extending the high-speed Internet access to remote areas. In addition, the country will gain from more affordable internet fees, bolstered cybersecurity, and investment growth from the private sector. An estimated five to six million people is expected to benefit from the project.
As chairman of the NEDA board, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved PDIP during the 18th board meeting on Tuesday in Malacañang. The loan secured from the World Bank is noted to be the largest to date and a first for digital infrastructure in the nation.
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The PDIP is expected to begin its rollout as soon as the Philippine government finalizes its interest rate negotiation with the World Bank. The project involves the construction of a public broadband infrastructure network, which consists of five main components. To enumerate, these are three networks, from backbone to middle and last mile, along with network security and project management support.
In a statement, NEDA secretary and board vice chairperson Arsenio Balisacan remarked how broadband services have already enabled opportunities, including work-from-home arrangements and digital access to essential services. He said the project would lead to greater connectivity for Filipinos.
Source: PNA