Measures to improve internet access OK’d

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Council has approved separate measures to expand internet access in the city, from commercial establishments in the urban core to underserved mountain barangays.

Councilors Nyza Archival and Winston Pepito authored the resolutions.

Archival proposed a resolution urging all commercial, business, and public establishments within the city to adopt and provide free, accessible Wi-Fi zones for their patrons and the general public.

She stressed that reliable internet access in malls, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and transport terminals would allow Cebuanos, students, workers, and tourists to instantly connect to essential digital services, emergency lines, and online maps.

The councilor noted that free Wi-Fi zones would directly support the city’s digital transformation goals, making it more attractive to investors and more competitive among global hubs.

Copies of the resolution will be furnished to the Office of the City Mayor, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Business Permit and Licensing Office for implementation.

Meanwhile, Pepito pushed for a resolution urging the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and major telecommunications providers such as Globe Telecom, Smart Communications, DITO Telecommunities, PLDT, Converge ICT Solutions, Eastern Communications, Radius Telecoms, and Sky Cable Corporation to conduct a comprehensive assessment of mobile and internet coverage in Cebu City’s mountain barangays.

Pepito emphasized that weak or non-existent signals in upland communities have hindered students engaged in online learning, residents seeking emergency assistance, and businesses conducting economic activities.

He called for the construction of additional cell sites, signal repeaters, and fiber optic facilities to ensure that rural barangays are not left behind in the digital age.

By targeting both urban establishments and rural barangays, the resolutions aim to ensure that connectivity reaches all corners of Cebu City.