DAVAO CITY – On Tuesday, April 19, the city council here approved Davao’s plan to beam free WiFi service in public spaces. As it has been approved with finality, the city government is now authorized to strike an agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to implement the project.
To know more about this so-called “WiFi for all” project, here are five things you need to know:
1. It’s not free
Councilor Joanne M. Bonguyan-Quillos, the proponent of the ordinance, said those who wish to subscribe to the service will have to pay a monthly bill. The DOST, however, assured that it will be lesser than what residents pay every month for bills charged by utility firms such as the Davao Light and Power Company.
2. Limited data
Subscribers can only avail a maximum of 50 megabytes (MB), said Bonguyan. She said this will regulate the internet traffic to ensure everyone get an efficient access to the internet.
3. Registration needed
Subscribers need to access their e-mail accounts before they can avail the service.
4. WiFi to cover far-flung areas in Davao
The service will not be limited in downtown areas in Davao, but would also cover outlying areas such as Marilog and Paquibato.
5. Hotspots at public spaces, schools
To aid students in their research, WiFi hotspots will be mounted at public spaces such as Peoples’ Park, as well as public schools. (davaotoday.com)
