Tolentino

Senator Tol pushes priority internet access for far-flung schools, nearby areas

February 5, 2025 People's Journal 133 views

SCHOOLS in far-flung areas and the areas near them will have priority in the proposed Konektadong Pinoy Act — a measure that aims to improve the country’s digital infrastructure and connectivity — after the Senate adopted an amendment proposed by Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino.

Tolentino’s proposed amendment to the bill – that “areas near educational institutions shall be prioritized” – was accepted during the Senate’s deliberations on the measure.

“For you to be able to ensure that they will provide continuous uninterrupted service, kailangan i-prioritize din sila ang internet access sa mga area na yan (We must prioritize internet access for these areas). Well taken, it’s accepted, and it’s a reminder that every single island of the country, every single area should have internet coverage,” he said.

In pushing for prioritizing far-flung areas, Tolentino cited the case of Zamboanga Peninsula, which has the lowest proportion of households with internet access at 28.5%.

Meanwhile, he noted Eastern Visayas has the lowest median fixed download speed of 38.43 mbps.

Tolentino stressed the entire Philippines must have good internet access for students, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao where the internet speed is very low.

“The purpose is really to provide students with the appropriate tools and enhance digital literacy and foster and improve the quality of education (thus) paving the way for the brighter future aspirationally,” he said.

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