World Bank approves $287M loan for Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project

The World Bank has approved a $287.24 million loan for the Philippine Digital Infrastructure Project (PDIP) to improve high-speed internet access in Mindanao, benefiting over 20 million Filipinos.

Under the PDIP, 772 sites will receive broadband coverage, reaching 10,259 underserved areas and enhancing access to education, healthcare, and government services.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy stated that the project aims to boost the country's GDP by 1.38 percent while ensuring resilient digital infrastructure for public institutions and remote communities.

The PDIP involves developing a national fiber optic backbone to extend connectivity to Visayas and Mindanao regions, with a focus on rural health centers, public schools, and state universities.

With an internet penetration rate of only 17 percent in some parts of Mindanao, the project seeks to reduce disparities by providing better access to digital services for underserved populations.