CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continues to expand its Free Public Internet Access Program in Pampanga, while also strengthening cyber safety advocacy and promoting the use of the eGovPH mobile application.
DICT Pampanga Provincial Head Engineer Jonathan Raineir Solis reported that as of December 2025, the province has 46 activated sites with 127 hotspots, with an additional 27 sites underway that will provide 42 more hotspots.
“Our priority areas include public places, state universities and colleges, and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) such as barangay halls and schools in Porac, Masantol, and Sasmuan,” Solis said.
He explained that in remote areas where connectivity is difficult, DICT utilizes Low Earth Orbit satellites technology, particularly Starlink, to provide internet access.
“In places like Mabuanbuan in Sasmuan, where one needs a boat to reach the barangay hall, satellite technology allows residents to connect to the digital world,” he added.
Aside from connectivity, DICT Pampanga also promotes cyber safety through information sessions in schools and barangays.
“We are conducting advocacy campaigns to educate children, parents, and communities on the responsible use of gadgets and the dangers of scams, deepfakes, and phishing links,” Solis said.
He urged the public to remain vigilant online and to report cybercrime incidents through DICT’s 24/7 hotline 1326.
“If it’s too good to be true, it’s not true,” he reminded.
DICT is likewise promoting the eGovPH mobile application, which allows Filipinos to access government services online, including digital IDs and permit applications.
“As of December 2025, Region 3 recorded 2.367 million downloads, with Pampanga accounting for about 581,000, the second highest in the region,” he said.
To increase adoption, DICT has set up booths at Clark International Airport and conducted sustained social media campaigns.
“We urge our kababayans to support DICT programs, from free internet access to cyber-safe activities, and to maximize the eGovPH app for faster and more convenient government transactions,” Solis said.
He said the DICT’s initiatives support the government’s thrust toward digital inclusion, safer online spaces, and more accessible public services, particularly for communities with limited access to technology. (MJSC/AJPM, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
