DICT, Globe launch free SIMs for students in Bulacan

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Globe have launched the Bayanihan SIM initiative at Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan, a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA).

This program aims to bridge the digital divide by providing free SIM cards with data to students, teachers, and parents.

The initial rollout distributed Globe-powered TM SIMs, each loaded with 25GB of monthly open-access data, to 500 beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries received an additional 5GB upon activation and can unlock 15GB more by loading P150 per month for the first three months, encouraging digital habits.

GCash, the Department of Education, Department of Interior and Local Government, and Philippine Statistics Authority collaborated with DICT and Globe for this initiative.

The program is anchored on the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act (Republic Act No. 10929) and seeks to enhance access to education, livelihood, and government services in remote communities.