Cebu chosen as pilot area for “LokalWiFi” service
CEBU, Philippines — Cebu has been selected as the pilot area for “LokalWifi”, a community-driven Wi-Fi service designed to provide reliable and affordable internet access to underserved areas across the Philippines.
Brezhnev Tero, chief operating officer (COO) and chief information officer (CIO) of Cebu-based tech firm GoodAppsInc., announced that LokalWifi will initially roll out in five barangays in Cebu.
The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide while creating income opportunities for local entrepreneurs, Tero said in an interview.
“Cebu is the perfect testing ground for new products. If it succeeds here, it can succeed anywhere,” said Tero adding that “this project is not just for us; it’s for our fellow Cebuanos. If this takes off, it’s a win for everyone.”
Unlike traditional Piso Wi-Fi systems, LokalWifi offers a more user-friendly experience. Users can access the internet from the comfort of their homes using Facebook Messenger and pay through digital wallets like GCash or PayMaya.
LokalWifi’s equipment provides a wider range—up to 300 meters—compared to Piso Wi-Fi’s limited 10-20 meter coverage.
“This is about making internet access more convenient, secure, and scalable,” Tero explained.
LokalWifi also opens opportunities for local businesses by offering partnerships as credit resellers and hotspot operators.
According to Tero, this model allows micro-entrepreneurs to earn while providing essential digital services to their communities.
GoodApps has partnered with TP-Link, Philteq, and Thinking Tools Inc. to support the expansion of LokalWifi.
The company plans to establish 10,000 access points by 2025, scale to 20,000 in the second year, and target 100,000 subscribers by the third year.
“This is about connecting communities, empowering local businesses, and transforming how we experience the internet,” Tero added.
If successful, LokalWifi could become a game-changer in nationwide connectivity, starting with Cebu at its core. — (FREEMAN)
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