Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines — Even as household internet access remains low in parts of the Zamboanga Peninsula, government data show steady progress in digital connectivity, highlighting both opportunities and ongoing challenges for the region.
The 2024 National Information and Communications Technology-Household Survey (NICT-HS), conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), reported that 21.2% of households in Region 9 now have internet access. While this figure is still below the national average, it marks a 15-percentage-point increase since 2019, reflecting gradual but sustained growth.
Internet access gaps
“With this data, decision-makers can better identify priority areas for ICT infrastructure, digital literacy, and digital services,” said Sonia Supnet, emphasizing the survey’s role in guiding government programs. Supnet is the Senior Statistical Specialist and Regional Focal Person for NICTHS in Region 9
Despite these gains, affordability and infrastructure gaps continue to limit access, especially in rural and island communities. To address these barriers, initiatives under the Digital Philippines agenda are being strengthened, with a focus on expanding broadband infrastructure, improving mobile connectivity, and lowering internet costs for underserved areas.
The survey also highlights growing individual connectivity: internet use among Filipinos aged 10 and older rose to 68.8% in 2024, while cellphone ownership climbed to 65.8%, with smartphones accounting for more than 80% of devices. These trends reflect a global shift toward mobile-first internet access, particularly in regions where fixed-line broadband is limited.
Primary gateway
Analysts note that mobile technologies are increasingly the primary gateway to the internet in emerging markets, enabling access to education, e-commerce, government services, and digital finance. In the Philippines, this trend is critical as policymakers push for inclusive digital infrastructure to bridge the rural-urban divide.
The gains in Region 9 also support ongoing legislative and policy measures, including the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which aims to accelerate infrastructure rollout, enhance competition, and ensure reliable, affordable internet access nationwide.
“The goal is to make government interventions targeted, effective, and responsive to actual community needs,” Supnet added. “We hope the results will guide resources so that efforts are not wasted.”
Looking ahead, while the Zamboanga Peninsula’s internet adoption is rising, regional disparities remain stark. Investments in mobile networks, community Wi-Fi, and digital literacy will be key to ensuring that the region fully benefits from the digital economy and aligns with global trends in connectivity.
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