TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Samar Governor Ralph Vincent ‘RV’ Evardone has expressed strong support for the rollout of the National Fiber Backbone (NFB) project in Eastern Visayas, describing it as a vital initiative to bridge the digital divide and accelerate development across the region.
The NFB project, spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve internet infrastructure nationwide.
The project involves laying down high-capacity fiber optic cables to create a backbone network that can support fast, stable, and affordable internet access, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Governor Evardone said the project will be a “game-changer” for Eastern Visayas, as improved digital connectivity will enhance the delivery of essential services in education, healthcare, business, and disaster response. He noted that the benefits will be especially transformative for rural communities, where poor internet access has long hindered progress.
“This is a huge step toward inclusive development. Reliable internet is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity for our people to access opportunities and services,” Evardone said.
Once completed, the NFB project is expected to bolster e-governance, online learning, telemedicine, and e-commerce throughout the region. It will also strengthen the region’s disaster preparedness systems by ensuring faster communication and information dissemination during emergencies.
The support of local leaders like Governor Evardone highlights the crucial role of regional stakeholders in the successful implementation of national infrastructure projects, especially in geographically challenging areas like Eastern Visayas.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
