Report DICT to Distribute 1 Million Free SIM Cards to Bridge Digital Divide

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The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has announced an ambitious project to distribute one million free SIM cards to teachers and students in underserved areas. This initiative, part of the Bayanihan SIM Project, aims to enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities.

 

Speaking at a Malacañang press briefing, DICT Undersecretary Paul Mercado detailed the plan, which includes building cell towers to boost signal access in these regions. "We will use cell signals, leveraging towers, to distribute around one million SIM cards in designated areas," Mercado explained. The project, in collaboration with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), is focused on improving educational access by prioritising students and educators.

 

A key feature of the distribution involves providing each of the one million SIM cards with a free 25-gigabyte monthly data allowance. This provision is intended to support online learning by allowing students and teachers to stream educational content and participate in virtual classes efficiently.

 

The project also aims to demonstrate market potential to mobile network operators, encouraging them to invest in infrastructure in areas they typically overlook due to low commercial incentives. "By taking the initiative and building infrastructure ourselves, we can prove to MNOs that there is indeed a market," Mercado stated.

 

In addition to the SIM card initiative, the DICT is working towards expanding its Free Wi-Fi Program. The goal is to implement the program at 135,000 public sites, with 125,000 sites targeted for completion by 2028. The department is currently exploring ways to lower costs and enhance internet access through the study of current technologies.

 

A significant challenge facing the Free Wi-Fi Program is budget constraints for subscription and maintenance. To address this, the DICT is navigating the National Budget Plan, aiming to secure sustainable funding through phases, reducing the need for continual budget requests.

 

"The sustainability plan for our Free Wi-Fi program is designed to ensure that we don’t have to keep asking for a budget," Mercado noted, emphasising the importance of strategic cooperation with network operators.

 

The Bayanihan SIM Project is expected to launch between late June and September this year, marking a significant step in the government's efforts to enhance digital access and support the educational needs of underserved communities in the Philippines.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-06-05