The project, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), provides 600 Free Wi-Fi Access points in 150 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) and 150 Indigenous Cultural Communities, which affords digital access to IP communities to facilitated timely delivery of government services and other pertinent resources upholding the well-being and rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs).

Highlights of the event were a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the NCIP as testament to promote information, communication and connection as an integral government service, expanding digital access especially to ICCs/IPs; and the pressing of a ceremonial activation button for the free Wi-Fi service.

In her message, NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las, delivered by Officer-in-Charge (OIC) for NCIP’s Office on Policy, Planning and Research Mr. Rolan Aldovino, underscored government’s and UNDP’s unwavering collective effort in advocating for the rights and development of ICCs/IPs particularly on digital inclusion as a means to support and elevate Indigenous voices and perspectives.

The launching was hosted by the Malaybalay LGU and witnessed by different Bukidnon LGUs and IP communities and IPMRs. Also present was NCIP Regional Office X OIC Director Fundador Binahon.