Medellin, Cebu – APNIC Foundation conducted a monitoring and evaluation visit to the Municipality of Medellin, Cebu, to assess the implementation, impact, and long-term sustainability of the ISLET Connect (Internet for Sustainable Livelihood, e-Education, and Tourism) Project. The initiative is led by the CVISNET Foundation, Inc., in close partnership with the Local Government Unit of Medellin (LGU Medellin).

The delegation is led by APNIC Foundation’s Ms. Ellisha Heppner, Program Manager for Grants, and Ms. Le Thu Thao, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Advisor.

The activity commenced with a coordination meeting between APNIC Foundation, CVISNET Foundation, and officials of LGU Medellin. Representing Municipal Mayor Edwin L. Salimbangon were Mr. Giles Anthony Villamor, Municipal Planning and Development Officer; Ms. Agnes Yaun, Consultant of the Barangay Affairs Office; and Ms. Lani Perez-Rosit, Consultant from the Office of the Municipal Administrator.

During the consultations, APNIC Foundation interviewed LGU representatives and the CVISNET Project Team, emphasizing the role of the ISLET Connect Project in resilient connectivity in disaster preparedness. The discussions highlighted how major disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons immobilize emergency response and relief operations.

Following the LGU consultations, the delegation visited active project sites in Barangay Curva and Barangay Tindog. The team inspected installed satellite internet systems, wireless access points, and community Wi-Fi facilities. They also engaged directly with residents to understand how the project has boosted internet accessibility, supported distance education, enhanced local governance, and secured vital emergency communications especially during the months that LGU Medellin and the respective barangays continue its long-term recovery from the late 2025 disasters.

The APNIC Foundation is a non-profit organization that has provided grant funding for the implementation of the ISLET Connect Project in selected Project sites in Medellin, Cebu. Launched in November 2025 in partnership with CVISNET Foundation, Inc. and LGU Medellin, this strategic initiative bridges the digital divide and builds disaster resilience for underserved, disaster-prone communities in Northern Cebu.

This evaluation visit reinforces all stakeholders' shared commitment to continuous improvement, strict alignment with community needs, and the long-term viability of digital interventions in Northern Cebu.