DICT assures zero tolerance for corruption, non-performing contracts

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) assured the public that it maintains a policy of zero tolerance against corruption, non-performing contracts, and misrepresented deliverables amid alleged irregularities involving the Free Wi-Fi for All Program.

In a statement on Sunday, Sept. 20, the DICT said Secretary Henry Aguda has directed the strengthening of the program’s governance, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms to protect public funds and ensure that connectivity services are properly delivered and verifiable.

Among the safeguards implemented are stricter enforcement of service level agreements (SLAs), enhanced contract management, regular internal audits, and stronger performance validation.

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The department said it has also upgraded its Network Monitoring System (NMS) to Version 2, providing nationwide visibility of Free Wi-Fi sites, including projects implemented at the regional level.

According to DICT, the system allows it to monitor access points, track service interruptions, validate provider performance, and use actual network data for contract and payment validation.

DICT also said it has introduced procurement reforms aimed at increasing transparency and lowering connectivity costs.

Under the reforms, service components are more clearly itemized and evaluated instead of being priced through bundled arrangements, which the department said provides greater visibility into costs and better value for public funds.

Private contractors handle infrastructure deployment under the Free Wi-Fi program, while DICT enforces performance and monitoring controls to ensure that services are operational.

The department said reports of non-performing or inactive sites are subject to immediate technical audit and contractual sanctions.

The statement comes amid an inquiry by the Office of the Ombudsman into alleged irregularities involving government information technology projects.

Assistant Ombudsman Miko Clavano earlier disclosed what the office described as a “ghost Internet” scheme, in which contractors could allegedly install cheaper, outdated, or fake software while charging the government for the required systems. Clavano said the investigation would center on DICT.

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DICT said it has yet to receive a formal notice from the Office of the Ombudsman but welcomed the inquiry and expressed readiness to provide assistance, records, and system data needed for the investigation.

The department said it remains committed to expanding connectivity while ensuring that government-funded projects are delivered efficiently, transparently, and with accountability to the public.