Microsoft offers free calls for OFWs

Officials of Microsoft Philippines yesterday demonstrated to President Arroyo the new initiative the company has undertaken for overseas Filipino workers dubbed "One Follow Me". The initiative allows OFWs from all over the world to communicate with their families here in the country for free.

Antonio Javier, Microsoft Philippines managing director, said that One Follow Me is a project that involves the use of digital technologies such as WiFi, Mobile Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Windows Mobile 5.0 (WiFi/cellular enabled) device. The project is now in the process of implementation.

"Hopefully, this will also enable them to remit money back to the country through a more affordable channel," he added.

Arroyo, who was the guest of honor during the inauguration of Microsoft's Southern Philippines office in Asia Town I.T. Park in Cebu City yesterday, congratulated Microsoft for its initiative of helping OFWs.

Arroyo said that while the project is being undertaken at the end of this year, this also showed a strong signal for the economy in the New Year that would be ushering in soon.

"Next year will be the time to drive our economic gains deeper into the grassroots. It will be the time to rehabilitate our calamity-driven communities. A time to drive our people back to the platform of enterprise. The sense of optimism and hope sends a clear message that the best for our people is yet to come," Arroyo said in her speech. - Gregg M. Rubio