The Philippines is on the threshold of the digital future, and the World Bank has approved a loan of $287.24 million (or €268.22 million for funding the country’s flagship initiative for a nation with digital connectivity), notes a report by China Daily. The project aims at boosting broadband connectivity to the 20 million Filipinos, primarily in rural areas.
Through the Philippines Digital Infrastructure Project, the country will build on its progress to further improve climate-resilient broadband services in all geographies that are secure and inclusive. Investments in national fiber optic backbone, middle-mile, and last-mile connectivity will be targeted through infrastructure that is the core backbone of a resilient digital ecosystem. All such infrastructure shall be hardened against cyber threats and climate-related risks.
The project also closes the digital gap in providing high-speed access to generally underserved regions. When completed, communications, economic growth, and public service delivery all throughout the archipelago will be improved.
The project will involve the interconnection of the two major international landing stations in Baler, Luzon, and Davao City, Mindanao, through the national fiber optic backbone, the government views it as a strategic tool to be used in its high capacity data transmission system.
The World Bank’s approval is proof positive of the faith of the international community in the drive of the Philippines into the digital transformation era. On completion, the project should significantly advance the country’s digital economy, increase access to online services, and provide for much more stable internet to millions of Filipinos.