Bontoc, Mountain Province – Residents of barangays Alab Proper, Balili, and Bayyo, along with vendors and the public visiting the Bontoc Public Market, will soon enjoy free internet access.
This initiative is part of the Department of Information and Communication Technology’s (DICT) Free WiFi for All program, which aims to enhance connectivity even in outskirt areas.
Relative to this, Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., barangay officials of Alab Proper, Balili, and Bayyo, and officers of Bontoc Market Vendors Association (BOMARVA) received one package each of Starlink Low Earth Orbit Satellite technology from the DICT. The awarding ceremony took place at the Governor Mayaen Sports Complex, coinciding with the recipients’ training program on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite technology on February 6, 2025.
The awarding of Starlink to beneficiaries was led by DICT Regional Director Reynaldo Sy, Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr., represented by Dionisio Wacdisen, along with members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
In his speech, Sy emphasized that the connectivity project aligns with the DICT’s mission to reach geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. He expressed hope that providing internet access would empower communities and promote digital inclusivity.
In an interview, Mayor Tudlong expressed gratitude to the DICT, the provincial government through Governor Lacwasan and Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, and Congressman Dalog for their partnership in bringing free internet access to the communities. He highlighted the importance of this initiative for students, entrepreneurs, and the community at large, noting its potential to enhance learning, promote local businesses, and facilitate faster communication.
Congressman Dalog, through Wacdisen, commended the DICT and the provincial government for their efforts in providing free internet access.
Governor Lacwasan thanked the DICT for responding to the provincial government’s request, emphasizing that the initiative is part of the Barangay Muna which aims to ensure that no one is left behind. He likewise credited the realization of the implementation of the DICT’s Free WiFi for all program to the harmonious working relationship of the local chief executive with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Vice Governor Francis Tauli, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Joshua Fronda, Ezra Samson Gomez, and Ricardo Masidong, Jr., joined in expressing their appreciation to the DICT for delivering government services to the grassroots level.
The other officials who were present to accompany the barangay officials in receiving their packages of Starlink Low Earth Orbit Satellite from the DICT were Besao Mayor Bryne Bacwaden, Sadanga Mayor Adolf Ganggangan, Barlig Mayor Clark Ngaya, Tadian Mayor Constito Masweng, and Natonin Mayor Jose Agagon. Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr., from the Bontoc Local Government Unit was also present during the event.
The event also included a demonstration of Starlink installation by DICT staff, ensuring that recipients are equipped to utilize the new technology effectively.
Meanwhile, a total of 27 recipients received the Starlink Low Earth Orbit Satellite technology package in Mountain Province during the event while more barangays in Mountain Province are expected to receive the same in the ensuing months.** Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay, Bontoc LGU
