The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has launched AI-powered budget transparency websites to make government spending and budget allocations easier for citizens to access and understand. These portals, hosted on the open.gov.ph domain, currently feature interactive dashboards for agencies like PhilHealth and the Social Security System with more to come. The AI tools help process and organize complex public finance data into user-friendly formats. Officials say the initiative supports a larger push toward transparency, digital governance, and citizen engagement. Future expansions will include additional departments in a phased rollout.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlighted efforts to promote unified digital governance and enhance digital services in the Philippines. The announcement underscores ongoing initiatives to drive digital transformation, improve government online platforms, and foster digital inclusion across sectors. By strengthening harmonized governance frameworks, the DICT aims to streamline public access to digital services and support broader national ICT goals. The release reflects a continued focus on digital policy modernization and engagement with global tech developments. This aligns with broader government efforts to boost technology adoption and digital infrastructure in the country.

Philippines Fiber Optic Cable Network Ltd. (PFOCN) secured a Green Lane Certificate from the Board of Investments (BOI), expediting permits and approvals for its ₱49.56 billion nationwide fiber expansion effort, signaling strong government support for digital infrastructure. The certification is meant to streamline inter-agency processes for what is considered a high-impact, strategic investment aligned with the nation’s digital transformation goals. Phase 2 will roll out approximately 20,000 route-kilometers of fiber optic network across urban areas over the next five years, building on earlier backbone infrastructure. The Green Lane status also promises ongoing coordination with government at every stage to reduce bureaucratic delays. PFOCN aims to expand backbone and access fiber infrastructure countrywide, reinforcing its role as the only independent fiber optic network operator in the Philippines.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) announced the signing of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the Konektadong Pinoy Act, marking a key milestone in the country’s push for faster, more affordable internet access. GMA Network+2dict.gov.ph+2 The IRR paves the way for qualified data-transmission players to enter the market without a legislative franchise, subject to technical and security standards. GMA Network The DICT emphasises that the reform is meant to accelerate fibre roll-out, lower connectivity costs, expand access especially in underserved areas, and bring every Filipino online. dict.gov.ph+1 The release of the IRR is expected to trigger significant investments in the telecom sector, enhance competition, and catalyse infrastructure sharing and transparency.

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has launched a five-year plan focused on digital communications and technology within the judiciary, supporting its ongoing digital transformation efforts. This plan covers modernization of case-management systems, strengthening cybersecurity, digitizing court processes, and improving data infrastructure to make the judiciary more efficient, transparent, and accessible. It aims to use technology not just for internal operations but to enhance public service delivery through faster case resolutions and better online systems. The initiative is aligned with the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) 2022–2027, which emphasizes innovation and transparent justice. Overall, the move highlights how the judiciary is embracing ICT to modernize governance and improve public access to justice.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has committed to providing fiber internet access to all Department of Education (DepEd) schools and state universities and colleges (SUCs) by 2026. Secretary Henry Aguda confirmed that around 11,000 DepEd schools will be connected in the next rollout phase, replacing satellite-based links with fiber connections. Lawmakers emphasized that SUCs should also be prioritized, requesting detailed rollout maps and cost plans. Funding will come from the Free Public Internet Access Program and the Spectrum Users Fund, totaling ₱7.5 billion for 2026. The initiative aims to modernize public education and bridge the digital divide across the country.