Politics · Philippines Bureau
Ombudsman targets DICT in ghost internet WiFi probe
The Office of the Ombudsman has launched a fact-finding investigation into alleged irregularities in the government's free WiFi program, with the Department of Information and Communications Technology as the primary focus. DICT said it supports the inquiry and maintains strict anti-corruption standards.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman announced Wednesday that its investigation into the so-called "ghost internet" issue will center on the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and its management of the government's free WiFi initiative.
The probe comes amid allegations that the public internet access program, intended to provide connectivity to Filipinos nationwide, may have involved questionable procurement practices or service delivery failures. The specific nature of the suspected irregularities in the "ghost internet" matter remains under investigation.
DICT responded to the Ombudsman's action by stating that the agency welcomes the anti-graft body's scrutiny. Officials from the technology department reaffirmed its commitment to institutional integrity, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy regarding corruption and misconduct.
The Ombudsman's fact-finding process typically precedes any formal administrative or criminal charges. The investigation is expected to examine procurement records, service contracts, and implementation protocols related to the free WiFi program.