World Bank OKs $287-M loan for Phl digital infrastructure

The World Bank has approved a $287.24-million loan for a project aimed at improving broadband connectivity while strengthening cybersecurity in the country.

- LOUELLA DESIDERIO

In a statement yesterday, the multilateral lender said its board of executive directors approved the funding for the Philippines Digital Infrastructure Project on Oct. 10.

The project, which is expected to benefit over 20 million Filipinos through the improved delivery of broadband connectivity services in the country, was approved by the National Economic and Development Authority Board last June.

It will involve investments in the government's national fiber optic backbone, middle-mile and last-mile connectivity infrastructure, while making sure facilities are protected from cybersecurity threats and climate risks.

The national fiber optic backbone interconnecting different regions of the country serves as the principal data highway for intra-country communications, carrying large amounts of data at high speeds.

The project will complete the remaining parts of the national fiber backbone, linking main international landing stations in Baler (Luzon) and Davao City (Mindanao).