DICT and unconnected.org Partner for Digital Inclusion for Maasinhon

Maasin, in Southern Leyte, Visayas, Philippines, is digitally-challenged. Coupled with inadequate telecommunications facilities and lack of commercial internet services, developments and investments have almost always skipped the municipality, and have been driven towards other cities which have more reliable digital infrastructure. 

Through the cooperation of various stakeholders, more than 30 schools, health centers, and evacuation centers combined were identified to benefit from satellite internet powered by unconnected.org.

A previous effort was stalled by subscription fees without prospect for sustainability. However, with unconnected.org’s model of community-centered connectivity, a duly licensed partner can provide affordable internet to support areas of social impact. 

To further enrich the connectivity, the DICT has likewise committed to conduct Internet, Media and Information Literacy (IMIL) and cybersecurity training for students and residents covered by the connectivity. 

According to officials, the connectivity will enhance public services, strengthen education, and ensure a more connected and inclusive city. They added that bridging the digital divide is not just access to technology—it’s about empowering communities, streamlining public services, enhancing education, and improving healthcare for the benefit of all Maasinhons, especially those in the most remote and rural parts of the city.