The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Luzon Cluster 2 launched on August 22 and 23 its Free Wifi Internet Access in Public Places project dubbed as “Pipol Konek” in Tarlac City and Pura, Tarlac. Together with this, the office also conducted the Internet Media Information Literacy (IMIL) Training in the said areas.
“Pipol Konek” is a fulfillment of President Rodrigo Duterte’s State of the Nation Address last July 25, 2016 where he stated that Wi-Fi access must be provided for public at no charge. The activity was implemented through the coordination and partnership with the Local Government Units led by Tarlac City Mayor Cristy Angeles and Mayor Concepcion Akol Zarate of Pura, Tarlac. It was participated by a total of 156 participants in Tarlac City and 168 from Pura, Tarlac. Attendees were from the different sectors including members of the LGU, teachers, students, and farmers.
The project aims to close the “Digital Divide” and build an inclusive and thriving ICT environment focused on developing the countryside, through delivering free broadband internet access to different municipalities and cities across the country. Participants were taught the basic steps on how to connect to the free Wi-Fi and were provided information on different government e-services. This initiative is projected to help the participants as well as their respective municipalities to accelerate their economic, social, and educational stance.
Multi-sectoral participants from Tarlac City, together with the DICT Luzon Cluster 2 staff
Three internet access points were installed in the different public sites in Tarlac City, specifically in Tarlac City Plazuela, Business Permits and Licensing Office, and Tarlac Capitol Lobby. Meanwhile, four places in Pura, Tarlac were given free internet access including the Municipal Hall, the Pura Plaza, the Rural Health Unit, and the Library Hall.
Mr. Edwin Mendoza, Management Information System (MIS) Head spearheaded the activity in Tarlac City, while Engr. Abegail Pagatpatan, Municipal Planning and Development Officer (MPDO) led the opening of the event in Pura, Tarlac. The project was facilitated by FOO-based Project staff headed by the Provincial Field Team Lead, Mr. Edriel Miranda.
Engr. Pagatpatan said at the opening ceremony, “We are very lucky to have been chosen by the National Government to be given another grant, which is the free wi-fi connection.” She also thanked the DICT for giving the orientation on how to use this free service. (DICT)
