Marawi City, Lanao del Sur Philippines – DITO Telecommunity has formally stepped-up efforts to rebuild war-ravaged Marawi City through Marawi Connect, a new internet service provider in the city. Marawi Connect, powered by DITO Telecommunity, is a digital infrastructure initiative designed to restore and expand connectivity across the city and surrounding areas. This effort is aligned with DITO’s broader campaign of nation-building through digital inclusion.

Unveiled through a landmark inauguration attended by local and regional leaders, Marawi Connect marks the beginning of a new digital era for the city. More than just upgrading networks, the initiative enables opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and peacebuilding by placing digital access at the heart of Marawi’s recovery.

DITO Telecommunity, which traces its roots to Mindanao, is bringing in investments and cutting-edge telecommunications infrastructure to support the city’s transformation. The project reinforces DITO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no Filipino is left behind—especially in areas historically underserved, in the case of Marawi, due to conflict or isolation.

“Connectivity is not just about internet access—it’s about access to opportunity,” said DITO Chief Revenue Officer Atty. Adel Tamano, a proud Maranao who traces his roots in Marawi. “With Marawi Connect, we are proud to contribute to the healing and rebuilding of Marawi through technology that empowers, educates, and unites.”

It may be recalled that the Marawi siege in 2017 devastated the city’s core, displacing over 300,000 residents and leaving schools, homes, businesses, and infrastructure in ruins. While reconstruction has been underway through the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (BMCRRP), restoring digital infrastructure has become an urgent priority—and DITO has stepped up to meet that need.

Local officials have fully backed the initiative. Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong, and various city and municipal mayors notably Marawi City Mayor Shariff Gandamra, and Lumba Bayabao Mayor Mahar Dagalangit have expressed unified support. Marawi Connect and DITO’s involvement is transformational development that signals a turning point for Marawi, where technology becomes a foundation for peace and progress.

Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid “Mujam” Raki-in Adiong in his message highlighted the importance of digital connectivity in the execution of government operations. The Vice Governor noted that improved internet service would expedite government services and benefit the entire community, as he expressed hope for increased investment in the province.

Retired Major General Rodolfo Santiago, DITO Chief Technology Officer in his speech said, “Through Marawi Connect, DITO aims to deliver high-speed mobile and internet coverage, along with support for digital literacy, e-learning, e-commerce, and public services. These efforts are geared not just at physical reconstruction, but towards building a more resilient city, ready for the future.”