A House committee has approved a measure seeking to establish information and communications technology (ICT) hubs in every province as lawmakers push to expand digital infrastructure and improve internet access nationwide.
The proposal, contained in House Bill No. 9970 or the proposed “ICT Hubs Act,” would require the creation of at least one ICT hub in each province based on a national ICT plan to be prepared by the Department of Information and Communications Technology.
Under the bill, provinces could host different types of ICT facilities, including data farms, IT and business process management hubs, cyber skills learning hubs, digital transformation centers, and digital innovation hubs.
Lawmakers said the measure aims to address the country’s digital divide and expand access to technology and Internet services, particularly in underserved and commercially unviable areas.
The bill also seeks to strengthen digital literacy and support the growth of the country’s digital economy.
The proposal directs the DICT to formulate a national ICT plan that would include broadband network development, incentives for private sector participation, and promotion of competition in the sector.
Local government units would help identify locations for the hubs, which must be situated in geographically accessible areas.
The bill also encourages private companies to establish ICT hubs following standards set by the DICT, while requiring the government to use emerging technologies to expand connectivity in remote communities.
In the explanatory note, lawmakers said the ICT sector contributed 7.5% to the country’s gross domestic product in 2022 and has played a major role in improving education, healthcare, government services, and employment opportunities.
