Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 21) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and telco firms Globe Telecom Inc., PLDT, Smart Communications Inc., DITO Telecom Inc., and Converge ICT Solutions signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Friday to establish the Connectivity Index Rating.
The rating system will be similar to hotel ratings that assess establishments on various parameters. Among the criteria will be internet speed, accessibility, availability, and security.
\”By having this initiative, we actually are able now to push all the establishments to improve their quality of service, especially on telecommunications and internet availability,\” said DICT Secretary Ivan Uy.
The DICT chief clarified that the rating system is not mandatory – nor will there be penalties – because the incentives for businesses will be the exposure once the ratings are published.
He said the rating system will also help the government target specific areas that have connectivity issues and allocate resources for interventions.
\”We can identify whether it is the establishment not willing to pay more to upgrade the quality of service or it’s on the supply side. Whether the telcos are not able to provide the necessary bandwidth there,\” he said.
Uy added that government subsidy is not possible for private establishments seeking to improve their connectivity since they generate their own income. However, they will look into providing support for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Private Sector Advisory Council Digital Infrastructure Head Henry Aguda, meanwhile, said he believes businesses will want to have high ratings to entice more customers and improve their service.
He said the rating system seeks to improve connectivity in tourist spots and areas with a lot of foot traffic.
\”We want hotels, restaurants, malls to have the highest ratings. So, when tourists come here, they will have connectivity. And beyond that, also government services,\” Aguda added.
The DICT is currently working with the Department of Tourism (DOT) to improve internet connectivity in tourist destinations.
The DOT said the country has logged over 3 million international visitor arrivals as of July 19, amounting to ₱212 billion inbound tourist receipts.
