BALER, Aurora (PIA) — Remote communities in Aurora now have improved connectivity as the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) officially launched 61 free public Wi-Fi sites across the province.
The initiative, under the Free Public Internet Access Program’s Satellite Access for Frontline Efforts, expands internet access in remote areas to support education, disaster response, and government services.
DICT Regional Director Antonio Edward Padre said the project is part of the agency’s nationwide strategy to build resilient digital infrastructure in underserved communities.
“This rollout reinforces our commitment to bridging the digital divide and enabling inclusive access to information and communications technology,” Padre pressed.
Maria Aurora has the most free public Wi-Fi sites with 11 followed by Dilasag with nine; Dipaculao with eight; Baler, San Luis, Dinalungan and Casiguran with seven each; and Dingalan with five.
Each site is equipped with a Starlink satellite system that supports up to 200 simultaneous users, dual access points with a 40-meter radius, and a solar-powered backup system.
The DICT also provides annual Starlink subscription and trains local coordinators to manage and maintain the free Wi-Fi service.
“Our goal is not just to install internet infrastructure, but to empower local communities to sustain and benefit from it,” Padre added.
DICT has deployed 1,075 free Wi-Fi sites across 116 of 130 cities and municipalities in Central Luzon.
Of these, 249 sites are located in Aurora, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to digital inclusion and to building a future-ready, connected nation. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
