The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and ComClark Network and Technology Corp announced on Tuesday that they will collaborate on a project to provide various connectivity technologies to over 2,000 remote areas across the Philippines.
The collaboration is part of the Universal Internet Subscription for GIDA (UISG) Project, which aims to deploy of fixed VSATs, fibre and ‘satellite-communications-on-the-move’ terminals to more than 2,000 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) across the Philippines. DICT says this will aid its assistance to other government agencies and LGUs with their connectivity needs during natural disasters.
The terrain of each area will determine which access connectivity technology is deployed – which means fibre wherever possible, and satellite everywhere else. DICT says around 1,400 sites are geographically viable for fiber-enabled access points. Hilly and mountainous areas will be connected with fixed VSATs.
The UISG project will also make use of satellite-communications-on-the-move terminals – powerful and portable antennas that can be hooked up to automobiles and boats, making them ideal for augmenting disaster and emergency response. DICT says that it has received 34 satellite-on-the-move units for distribution to its regional offices.
ComClark chief operations officer Benedicto Bulatao said that an unprecedented 145-gigabyte capacity was allocated for the project.
Working with various connectivity providers, the UISG Project currently tracks over 4,740 active sites in 1,871 locations providing connectivity across all 17 regions of the Phiulippines.
DICT says that 97% of the sites have already been activated and accepted, and are expected to be completed by the end of this year.
DICT is working with ComClark’s subsiary Converge ICT Solutions to implement the project. The supply of the equipment between DICT and ComClark is being implemented with We Are IT Philippines and Telered Technologies and Services.
DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said the project will help boost its goals of broadening digital inclusion across the Philippines.
“The Free Public Internet Access Program, under the Broadband ng Masa Initiative, seeks to bridge the digital divide and connect Filipinos to limitless opportunities the digital economy offers,” he said in a statement. “Our collaboration with ComClark for the UISG Project exemplifies our dedication to turning this vision into reality. We are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution reach every corner of our nation.”
