The Marcos administration has allocated an additional P5 billion to expand public WiFi hotspots in public schools, nd state universities, and colleges nationwide.
The funding, included in the 2026 General Appropriations Act, will support the Free Public Internet Access Program, allowing students access to password-free internet, especially in underserved and remote areas.
Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales said the expanded program aims to boost online learning, digital services, and access to government training and employment platforms.
The new allocation adds to the P7.5 billion budgeted for the program in 2025, with funding sourced from spectrum user fees paid by telecommunications firms.
Separately, the Department of Education said it is also expanding universal school feeding and strengthening transparency in procurement to improve learning outcomes and accountability.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 3, 2026
