Duterte approves launch of gov’t satellite network in 2018

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has given the greenlight for the unveiling of a government satellite network (GSN) in 2018, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said on Wednesday, December 6.

Andanar, in a statement, said the President gave his nod during the 20th Cabinet meeting held at Malacañang on Tuesday, December 5.

The GSN will be implemented by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) headed by Andanar.

Andanar said the network will be the government’s tool for transmission of its created content, such as video, photos, and audio all throughout the country, especially to remote areas, using “advance satellite and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) technology.”

“The GSN can transmit government video, image, audio and data content to the islands and hinterlands of the Philippines and the rest of world using advance satellite and IPTV technology,” Andanar said.

“It also provides two-way or multiple 4K tele-conference communication, Internet delivery capability and multiple TV channels,” he added.

Andanar said the state-owned satellite network can be inauguarated in around 42,000 villages’ halls, all PCOO’s attached agencies, and offices all throughout the country in six months, if all necessary legal work and bidding processes are “ironed out.” (Ruth Abbey Gita/ SunStar Philippines)