The Manila Times
ABOUT 5,776 public schools nationwide will enjoy satellite-based internet connectivity following the partnership of Data Lake Inc. and We Are IT Philippines Inc. The project integrates nationwide deployment capability with end-to-end connectivity management — from system design and installation to monitoring and support, ensuring consistent, scalable and accountable delivery across all sites. Data Lake, the first and largest authorized Starlink partner in the country, said the initiative followed a rigorous government procurement process, which adheres to national standards for transparency and accountability in public infrastructure initiatives. With the issuance of the Notice to Proceed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the project has commenced, with the joint venture partners confirming operational responsibilities and transitioning into nationwide implementation. All installations have complied with Terms of Reference (TOR) requirements and safety standards to ensure operational reliability across all deployment sites. Stressing that universal internet access is a critical enabler of education and opportunity, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the project would provide a standardized, enterprise-grade connectivity solution across Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) communities. Aguda said the DICT has been expanding the “Free Wi-Fi for All Program” under Republic Act 10929 to reach unserved GIDA schools. Each deployment kit includes a complete, end-to-end connectivity and infrastructure package designed for reliable operation in remote environments. At its core is the LEO satellite terminal, including Starlink systems, delivering high-speed, low-latency internet access. The systems are supported by a cloud-managed router and a Wi-Fi 6 access point configuration to enable stable and extended wireless coverage across school facilities. According to Data Lake, the system is complemented by secure equipment housing, structured cabling, mounting systems, and weatherproofing to ensure durability across varying site conditions. Free Wi-Fi signage and user instruction materials are also installed on-site to support accessibility, proper usage and community awareness, it said. To address power instability in geographically isolated areas, each site is equipped with an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and power distribution components to provide surge protection and backup power. DICT director Edgar Navarro expressed confidence in the success of the project. “We've been waiting for this moment so that we can actually start the implementation of this project. It's been a month or two that we're preparing this project,” Navarro said. Marcelino Veloso III also hailed the partnership of Data Lake and We Are IT Philippines as an unprecedented collaboration. “I don't think any project has gone through this length of connectivity in our country's history. There were a lot of sleepless nights. The draft of the TOR, all the way to the contract, the procurement process, there was tight integration,” Veloso said. “For us, this is not just about winning a project. It's actually part of our mission and vision. It's really a partnership between public and private. The children are the future of our country,” David Tanael said. Data Lake said satellite connectivity installation and activations have been fully completed for Lots 1, 2, and 3 as of April, successfully connecting 3,786 public school sites across the country. The final deployment for Lot 4 will link the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to the system. By expanding reliable internet access in remote communities, Date Lake said the Pialeos (Provision of Internet Access via Low Earth Orbit Satellites) project strengthens digital learning, improves access to educational resources, and supports more inclusive school connectivity across the country.
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