EasyCall ramping up nationwide connectivity

EasyCall Communications Philippines Inc. will continue to focus its efforts on data communications and satellite technology to bring connectivity to far-flung areas of the country.

In a statement yesterday, the company, which used to be the country’s top provider of pagers, has turned to Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology to help bridge the digital divide in the country

VSAT is a two-way satellite communications system that can transmit and receive data via remote terminals or hubs.

It is among the technological advancements developed by EasyCall to help provide opportunities for inclusive growth through access to reliable connectivity and internet access in unserved and underserved areas around the country.

“The need for connectivity is more important than ever, and we feel the responsibility to open up that possibility to millions of Filipinos who have limited connectivity access,” Zaki Delgado said.

EasyCall is setting up VSAT in Zambales, Negros Occidental, Cavite, Bicol, Isabela, Iloilo and Cebu as part of efforts to improve the country’s digital landscape.

Over the years, it has rolled out its EasyNet VSAT managed service to underserved and unserved provincial communities around the country. These include Samar, Quezon, Iloilo, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Leyte and Antique.

“There is a critical demand for connectivity in far-flung cities and municipalities, especially in the aftermath of disasters and emergencies, for businesses with remote offices, and for efficient access to services. Despite the complexities we are facing with the terrain and climate (of the Philippines), VSAT can effectively deliver secure and reliable connectivity to these places, and enable progress and development,” Delgado said.

Acquired by Transnational Diversified Group in 2001, EasyCall shifted its direction following the onset of short message service and text messaging in the 2000s.