The program has been plagued by delays even if the government has appropriated almost P8 billion since the project's inception in 2015. As of June 2019, only 2,677 sites have been made operational, out of the cumulative target of 34,236 sites by end of the year.
Congress has ratified a measure mandating transport terminals to improve their facilities through the provision of free Wi-Fi connections and clean sanitary facilities.
Saying only 2 of 112 SUCs are enjoying free Wi-Fi, Angara said he is expecting DICT acting secretary Eliseo Rio to explain before the Senate the cause of delay, and the steps being undertaken to fast-track its implementation.
In an audit report last month, the COA sternly criticized the DICT for its disastrous implementation of the government?s free public WiFi program and raised doubts over its ability to finish the P6.507-billion project this year.
The measure mandates the DICT, in coordination with the DOTr and other concerned agencies, to provide free Internet access in land transportation and roll-on/roll-off (roro) terminals nationwide.
Sen. Grace Poe has field a bill that mandates free Internet and clean sanitary facilities for passengers in land transportation terminals, pit stops, stations, and rest areas all over the country.
