BUTUAN City – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched the National Fiber Backbone (NFB) Phases 4 and 5 projects here on Monday.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda led the project launch, which is part of the agency’s Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP). The PDIP, with a total investment of PHP16.1 billion, is the first digital infrastructure program supported by the World Bank. It is designed to speed up the deployment of broadband access nationwide.
“This project highlights the DICT’s ‘Digital Bayanihan’ approach in advancing inclusive digital development, especially in unserved and underserved areas,” Aguda said.
The NFB’s Phases 4 and 5 will connect 772 unserved areas in most parts of Mindanao, including the Caraga Region.
Undersecretary Paul Joseph Mercado of DICT’s Infrastructure Management and Cybersecurity, who also attended the event, highlighted the importance of a digitally connected Philippines.
“This milestone proves the DICT’s full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a Bagong Pilipinas, a nation that is digitally inclusive, resilient, and future-ready,” he said.
DICT-13 Director Mario Cuñado and other regional officials from the agency witnessed the launch of the NFB phases. (PNA)
