Government launches free wi-fi along EDSA
WI-FI ON EDSA: A phone shows free wi-fi connection on EDSA as the Department of Information and Communications Technology tests the service for its launch today. PLDT and Globe Telecom have
partnered with the DICT to provide free high-speed internet on EDSA. MICHAEL VARCAS
MANILA, Philippines - Free wi-fi and high-speed internet services were formally launched yesterday along the entire 24-kilometer stretch of EDSA, improving connectivity and communication for all.
“This is just the beginning,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said of the project, which initially covers the stretch from Cubao to Guadalupe.
Speaking at the launch, Abella said the free services would enable access to information such as weather, education and online jobs.
“People would be more connected as a result of better communication,” he said.
He credited the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission for the undertaking.
“DICT has gained traction in the everyday lives of our people. It plays an important role in nation-building, forming part of the overarching goal of President Duterte in building a united Philippines where there is comfortable life for all,” Abella said.
A survey conducted in November by mobile service watchdog OpenSignal showed the Philippines’ LTE/4G internet connectivity was among the slowest in the world, and was only available to subscribers less than half of the time.
Abella pointed out that June is National Information and Communications Technology Month, thus it was fitting that one of the highlights was the launch of the free wi-fi, among the promises made by President Duterte in his first State of the Nation Address last year.
“We commend concerned national agencies of the government as well as the local governments of Quezon City, Makati City, Mandaluyong and Pasay City and the private sector, for providing access points in all MRT stations and in between stations and enhancing infrastructure for cellular services along EDSA,” said Abella.
‘Not impressive’
However, a commuter claimed the wi-fi service along EDSA offered by the DICT was not impressive on the first day of its operation.
Efforts to access the internet through EDSA wi-fi from Camp Crame near Santolan Station of the MRT to Araneta Center in Cubao were unsuccessful, she said. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe
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