Congressional oversight on ICT projects is a must
IN AN ambitious stride toward digital transformation, the Philippines, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative — the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP). Envisioned to achieve nationwide internet connectivity by 2028, the project focuses on enhancing broadband connectivity, strengthening cyber-resilience, and upgrading national cloud infrastructure, aiming to foster economic growth, improve cybersecurity, and ensure digital inclusivity across the nation.
To realize this transformative plan, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) formally proposes the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project for World Bank financing of $300 million.
The digital divide in the Philippines, characterized by a gap in digital access and capabilities, poses a significant challenge affecting the country’s socio-economic growth and inclusivity. The PDIP compliments the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, which outlined strategies to improve internet infrastructure and address the digital divide. It emphasized the need for robust and expansive internet infrastructure, targeting improvements in internet speed, reliability and affordability.
The PDIP is also aligned with the National Broadband Plan, a strategic framework by the DICT, aiming for nationwide broadband connectivity by 2026. It focuses on building a robust infrastructure to improve internet speed, reliability and affordability. The National Fiber Backbone has a target to finish from North Luzon to Mindanao by 2026.
The “Free Internet Access in Public Places Act” (Republic Act 10929) was enacted in August 2017. It aligns well with the need to bridge the digital divide by providing free internet access in public places, addressing one of the fundamental challenges: connectivity availability. The program covers various public places including government offices, educational institutions, public hospitals, parks, libraries, transportation terminals, and more.
However, implementation challenges such as underutilization of funds, supplier debts, and slow roll-out in public schools have been flagged by the CoA and several legislators.
Broadband ng Masa is another program to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity across the Philippines, potentially including the provision of free or highly subsidized internet access. This program is part of the effort to boost Wi-Fi connectivity in the Philippines, including significant infrastructure projects like the subsea cable system. It aims to enhance both the affordability and availability of internet access, particularly in underserved areas.
The DICT disseminated documents about the PDIP initiative, asking for comments. Here are my thoughts about it.
Role of the environmental and social management framework
The Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) for the PDIP plays a crucial role in guiding how environmental and social risks and impacts are addressed throughout the project’s lifecycle. It ensures that the project is implemented responsibly, focusing on minimizing adverse effects on the environment and communities, while maximizing social and environmental benefits. This framework is key to achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring the project’s compliance with national regulations and World Bank standards.
Role of the stakeholder engagement plan (SEP)
At the heart of this initiative lies the SEP, a comprehensive strategy designed to ensure that all voices are heard, and all concerns are addressed. Recognizing the diverse impact of such a nationwide project, the plan outlines a meticulous approach to involving stakeholders — from local communities to governmental entities and beyond — in a meaningful dialogue about the project’s implementation and its ramifications.
Role of the environmental and social commitment plan (ESCP)
The ESCP plays a crucial role in ensuring that the PDIP adheres to sustainable development practices. It outlines measures to manage environmental and social risks, ensuring the project complies with international standards. The plan emphasizes the importance of transparency, stakeholder engagement, and the continuous monitoring and adaptation of strategies to mitigate potential impacts on society and the environment, highlighting a commitment to responsible and inclusive project implementation.
Labor and management procedures (LMP)
The LMP for the PDIP establishes guidelines to manage labor aspects, particularly in compliance with national laws and World Bank standards. They aim to ensure fair treatment, safety and health of workers involved in enhancing broadband connectivity and digital infrastructure, thereby supporting the project’s successful implementation and contributing to its broader goals of digital empowerment and inclusion across the Philippines.
Toward a digitally empowered Philippines
If the PDIP moves forward, its success will hinge on the technological advancements it introduces and the strength of its engagement with the Filipino people. Through concerted efforts in bridging the digital divide, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and upgrading the national cloud infrastructure, the project stands as a beacon of progress in the Philippines’ digital journey.
The DICT has a growing number of partnerships and initiatives for digital-divide related projects. Regular assessment of the impact and effectiveness of their various initiatives is critical. This approach allows for the identification of gaps and the adjustment of strategies to better address the digital divide.
Involving local communities in the planning and implementation of connectivity projects ensures that the solutions provided are tailored to meet specific needs. Increasing digital literacy and awareness about the benefits of internet access can stimulate demand and encourage wider adoption.
I have been exposed to numerous initiatives of the DICT since the creation of the annual billion pesos E-Government Fund management in 2002. What DICT and various ICT government initiatives lack is oversight. If the World Bank is serious about funding this project, it should push for proper oversight of DICT and government ICT projects to ensure it gets completed with suppliers and contractors paid accordingly.