DICT turns over 50 satellite kits to public schools in Agusan Sur
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — In line with Republic Act No. 10929, which provides free, fast, and secure internet access in public spaces nationwide, particularly in underserved and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga turned over 50 low-earth orbit satellite (LEOSAT) kits at the Provincial Learning Center (PLC) in Prosperidad on February 20.
“We thank the province of Agusan del Sur for accommodating DICT Caraga. We also express our gratitude to the two congressional representatives who selected the 50 schools where the LEOSAT kits will be deployed, primarily prioritizing public schools under the Department of Education (DepEd),” said Regional Director Mario P. Cuñado of the DICT Caraga.
“This is our way of giving back to the taxpayers what they are paying for,” he added.
Through this program, LEOSAT kits are deployed to priority locations, particularly public schools, to help improve digital learning, strengthen access to online government services, and support communities in remote or underserved areas.
The initiative also forms part of the national government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive digital transformation in the Philippines. Adolph Edward G. Plaza, congressional representative of Agusan del Sur’s District II, thanked the DICT Caraga as one of those who initiated and requested the project from the agency.
“We are truly grateful to the DICT for providing the 50 LEOSAT kits. This initiative will significantly enhance connectivity, empower students and teachers, and support the government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide,” he said.
The kits will also greatly help the province as it prepares to host the Palarong Pambansa 2026, enabling athletes to stay connected with their families, access important updates, and share their achievements online.
Moreover, improved internet connectivity will support real-time coordination, strengthen media coverage, and ensure the efficient dissemination of information throughout the event, as some of the recipient schools will also serve as billeting quarters for the Palarong Pambansa 2026.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda shared his audiovisual presentation (AVP) while he was in India representing the Philippines.
“Even though I am not in Agusan del Sur, you are in my heart because this day is not a simple turnover; it is history. We all know the reality in many places in the Philippines, especially in the provinces. There are areas in the country that have high-speed internet, complete access, and services available with just one click. However, some still need to search for a signal, climb to higher places, leave their homes, and go somewhere just to download requirements, submit modules, or even send a simple message. We admit that many families in Agusan del Sur are experiencing this. It is not just an inconvenience but also a gap in opportunities—a digital divide that slows down the progress of many, which should not be the case,” Aguda said.
“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. gave me a very clear mandate to ensure that no Filipino is left offline. It is simple but heavy. It is not a suggestion but a directive, and this is the reason why we are here. This mission is anchored in law under R.A. No. 10929. It is the government’s obligation to bring internet access to everyone in public spaces. Today, we are turning that promise into reality,” he added.
Some of the school heads from the different schools selected by the two congressional representatives of Agusan del Sur are present to share the joy of the positive change and new opportunities to GIDA communities in the province. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur)
