Bridging the digital gap in underserved communities
Across the country, PLUS Centers are opening their doors each day, offering free internet to underserved communities.
Where they exist, they provide safe learning spaces where students and jobseekers from marginalized backgrounds receive digital literacy training and educational resources that improve their chances to thrive in the digital age.
Simple public infrastructure that offers seemingly mundane services like, by the standards of many these days, the Web at one’s fingertips can, indeed, transform people and uplift communities.
Digital divide
The Philippines has a digital divide, or an inequality in terms of access to the internet. Based on government estimates, nearly 40 percent of the country lacks reliable internet access, mostly rural and marginalized settings.
Such a problem hinders economic and social development because, without the tools and skills to navigate the digital age, people could not compete with their more “connected” peers.
Power to comp
Launched in 2024, PLeteUS Centers have given thousands the power to compete. Those helpful spaces were launched by DigiPlus Interactive through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation.
DigiPlus is a pioneer in digital entertainment in the country which produced widely known platforms like BingoPlus and ArenaPlus.
The PLUS Centers are just one of many initiatives BingoPlus Foundation has launched under a bigger P100-million commitment for 2024, an amount meant to help build a brighter future for the country.
“True success is measured not just by business growth, but by the impact we make in people’s lives,” said DigiPlus chair Eusebio Tanco.
Beneficial programs
The pledge has benefitted over 120,000 Filipinos through projects in education, disaster relief and livelihood programs.
With the PLUS Factor Scholarship Program, the company supports and empowers over 60 students nationwide. It provides full scholarships, financial assistance and mentorship opportunities to soon-to-be leaders in STEM, business and digital innovation.
Following Tropical Storm “Kristine,” DigiPlus allocated P37 million to emergency aid, delivering critical relief, rebuilding support and sustainable livelihood assistance to affected communities. This helped families address disaster recovery and resilience.
DigiPlus invests heavily in sustainable livelihood programs, equipping individuals with resources, training and tools to achieve economic independence. Through skills development and job readiness initiatives, the company also creates opportunities for progress and prosperity.
“Through the BingoPlus Foundation, we are empowering scholars, bridging the digital divide, rebuilding communities, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. This is how we make a difference,” Tanco said.
