Around 96% of public schools across the country now have access to free Wi-Fi, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda said on Friday, July 3.
During an interview on DZRH's Dos Por Dos, Aguda said the DICT, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), is aiming to achieve 100% internet connectivity in all public schools nationwide within the next three weeks, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s commitment during his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to connect all DepEd schools.
“Ang pangako namin sa president kasi yung sabi niya doon sa last SONA niya. Doon sa susunod niyang SONA dapat 100% na mga DepEd schools connected na, mga nasa 96% na kami,” Aguda said.
“Nira-rush na namin ‘yung last 4%,” he added.
Aguda clarified that the internet service provided in schools is intended solely for educational purposes and access to online learning tools. He said gaming platforms will remain inaccessible, while access to some social media platforms will be limited.
“Mabilis ‘yung Wi‑Fi pero hindi ka maka‑access ng Roblox at ng Gorebox. Ang Wi-Fi sa schools ay para lang sa pag-aaral at government requirements ng mga bata,” he said.
He cited an earlier statement by DepEd Undersecretary Malcolm Garma, who emphasized that internet connectivity in schools should primarily support teachers in preparing lessons and students in their learning activities.
Aguda added that while students may still access social media, its use will be restricted, with priority given to educational content identified by the Department of Education.
“Ang mga naka-prioritize diyan ay mga learning content na ibibigay sa amin ni Deped,” he said.
He also reiterated that gaming platforms, including Roblox and Gorebox, will remain blocked on the school Wi-Fi network. The platforms recently drew public attention following reports linking one of the suspects in the June 22, 2026, school shooting in Tacloban City to online gaming activity.
“Dapat pangalagaan yung mga content na ginagamit ng kabataan natin,” Aguda said.
Aguda also said the DICT is set to expand its free Wi-Fi program to more public spaces, with shopping malls and public markets among the next locations to receive free internet connectivity as part of the government's broader digital inclusion initiative.
