CommScope partners with Converge ICT to expand network coverage in PH
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Network infrastructure provider CommScope has partnered with local service provider Converge ICT to expand network coverage in unserved and underserved communities in the Philippines.
According to CommScope Philippines Managing Director Jose Antonio Reyes, this deal would help fasttrack fiber rollouts in urban and rural areas across the country.
This comes as Reyes urged the government to allow foreign operators to the Philippines. He said that bringing in foreign operators will ensure a competitive landscape in the country.
“Thus, offering more affordable Internet service for consumers while supporting a growing demand for remote working and learning that are here to stay for the long term.”
Reyes also stated that the country has one of the most expensive internet services in Southeast Asia, with a 500-megabyte Internet service costing $6.3 per month.
The CommScope executive also emphasized the “noticeable digital divide” between urban and suburban areas in the country — with only 20 to 30% of Internet users in suburban areas compared to 90% in urban areas.
Reyes pointed out that public-private partnerships (PPP) could help roll out faster Internet services faster, especially in the countryside.
“These partnerships will not only enable a faster deployment of mobility and Internet services, but it will also ensure dedicated bandwidth and digital infrastructure resources provided to local schools, health-care facilities and government services,” he concluded.
