The initiative builds on the Luzon Bypass Infrastructure (LBI) project, a partnership among BCDA, DICT, and Meta that established a 240-kilometer fiber corridor linking Baler, Aurora to San Fernando, La Union.
High-speed leap
BCDA built the infrastructure — including two cable landing stations, four repeater stations, and terrestrial facilities — while DICT manages operations. The corridor can accommodate two additional submarine cable operators.
DICT currently uses 100 gigabits-per-second (Gbps) of the capacity under Phase 1 of the National Fiber Backbone project, providing faster and more affordable connectivity to government offices, schools, and communities.
Activating the full 2Tbps represents a 20-fold capacity increase, enabling large-scale, high-speed connectivity nationwide.
“Now that we have physical infrastructure in place, it’s time to activate its full potential,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang.
Bridging digital divide
“The 2Tbps bandwidth capacity presents a game-changing opportunity to bridge the digital divide, especially in far-flung areas and future smart cities like New Clark City.”
Bingcang added that the collaboration reflects the government’s push for digital equity. “With this capacity, we can support millions of simultaneous high-speed connections, expand internet access across the country, and power the smart cities and digital industries of the future.”
Once integrated, the 2Tbps bandwidth will speed up the deployment of high-capacity internet to more government offices, educational institutions, economic zones, and underserved communities. It will also strengthen digital infrastructure in BCDA-managed estates such as New Clark City, Clark Freeport Zone, Camp John Hay, and Poro Point Freeport Zone — supporting data-driven industries, smart logistics, and AI-enabled public services.
Inclusive growth drive
The allocation will form the backbone of the national broadband network, complementing other subsea cable projects and domestic fiber rollouts. BCDA and DICT are finalizing technical arrangements, timelines, and integration plans.
The project aligns with BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by expanding access to affordable internet and fostering inclusive growth. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
