COURTESY: (SMM/PIA-10)
A Remarkable Transformation
The landscape of mobile and internet connectivity in Northern Mindanao has undergone a significant transformation over the past five years, as revealed by the 2024 National ICT Household Survey (NICTHS). In 2019, fewer than three in ten residents owned a mobile phone, a statistic that starkly contrasts with the current ownership rate of over seventy percent in 2024. Notably, a staggering 88 percent of these devices are smartphones, highlighting the region's rapid embrace of advanced technology. Furthermore, household internet access surged from a mere 6.5 percent to nearly 55 percent, while individual usage escalated from 11.5 percent to an impressive 61.4 percent. These figures reflect a profound shift towards mobile-based access, cementing the importance of digital connectivity in the lives of the residents.
However, despite these encouraging advancements, challenges persist. Underutilization and gaps in digital literacy remain prevalent. For instance, fewer than half of the residents are aware of government websites, and only one in five actively engages with online services. April Ann D. Tigulo, a senior economic development specialist at DEPDEV-10, emphasizes that while the data showcases progress, it also underscores the necessity for stronger integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in regional development. She remarked, “This shows that we are a mobile-first society. But the challenge remains—affordability and access, especially in mountainous or island barangays.”
The Path Forward: Policies for Inclusive Growth
To bridge the digital divide and further enhance connectivity, Tigulo advocates for the implementation of policies that support the establishment of more cellular towers, broadband rollout, and affordable internet packages. This approach aims to reduce inequalities and create opportunities for e-commerce and online education. She states, “For education, health, and economic inclusion, this digital divide is critical.” With nearly half of households remaining offline, the urgency for initiatives like the Konektadong Pinoy Law and the National Broadband Plan becomes evident. Expanding broadband, fiber, and public Wi-Fi is not merely about improving speed; it is about ensuring that every citizen has the right to connect.
Moreover, the emergence of the digital economy in Northern Mindanao cannot be overlooked. Mobile money accounts have skyrocketed from about 1 percent in 2019 to 31 percent in 2024, while online buying and selling have increased nearly tenfold. This burgeoning digital landscape presents a unique opportunity for integrating e-commerce and fintech into local value chains. Tigulo asserts, “By doing so, ICT becomes a tool for inclusive growth and job creation.” The Regional Development Plan outlines essential priorities such as broadband expansion, digital literacy, e-governance, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), all of which are critical for fostering a thriving digital ecosystem.
As Northern Mindanao strides towards a more connected future, it is imperative to address the existing gaps in digital literacy and accessibility. By prioritizing ICT integration and supporting localized digital initiatives, the region can unlock its full potential, ensuring that every citizen reaps the benefits of a digital society.
