Talk 'N Text holds Internet.org learning sessions for first-time mobile Internet users
"Sigurado kang libre 'to (Are you sure this is free)?"
There are people who take their Internet connection for granted; and then there are people such as Juan Distajo III. "Kuya Juan" is a familiar face to everyone in the office where he works as a housekeeping staff - after all, he's the go-to all around guy: he's the "kuya" that gets sent out to errands, he brings in refreshments during meetings and he makes sure that the workspace is clean at all times.
This time though, Kuya Juan takes a break from his housekeeping duties as he learns about Internet.org, a mobile app that allows Filipinos to enjoy free access to a buffet of 24 sites featuring informative and practical content, including Facebook and Messenger, on their mobile phones.
The people behind Smart's value brand Talk 'N Text- take it a step further though by holding the "Panalo ang May Alam" Caravan, a series of fun learning sessions designed for first-time and beginner Internet users.
"Kasi kung libre to, ibig sabihin kahit wala akong load, pwede kaming gumawa ng assignment ng anak ko (If this is really free, it means my son can use this for his homework even without load)," shares Juan. "Grade 5 na ang anak ko, so medyo humihirap na ang mga assignment. Gaya nung huli, may pinagawa yung teacher nya tungkol sa history, so kinailangan na naming magInternet (My son is in Grade 5 now, and his assignments are getting tougher. Last time, it was about history and we had to research online)."
'Panalo ang may Alam'
Aside from using the Internet to help his daughter, Kuya Juan says he uses the Internet to relax after a hard day's work. The "Panalo ang may Alam" Caravan made him realize however that the Internet-with Internet.org- can be so much more and that he can access it through his mobile phone. "Marami ka pa lang malalaman sa Internet… panalo ang may alam kasi kung may alam ka, mas malayo ang mararating mo (You can gain a lot of knowledge from the Internet. You can win in life with the things you learn online."
Nikko Galvez, Talk 'N Text brand manager, says that the session with Kuya Juan is only one of many planned in the coming months. "This service is what we call 'panalo' or a 'win' for our subscribers, and embodies the brand's celebration of life's small victories every day," notes Galvez.
To enjoy Internet.org, subscribers may simply download the Internet.org app on Google Play Store or type www.internet.org on their mobile browser. They may also text INTERNET to 9999 or visit www.talkntext.com.ph/ internet.org for more information.
Internet for All
With the Internet.org app on mobile phones, TNT, Smart and Sun subscribers nationwide may access general information on Ask.com, Bing, Dictionary.com, wikiHow and Wikipedia; get news updates on Inquirer, PhilStar, Interaksyon, and Rappler; stay updated on sports through ESPN and SPIN.PH; check out the weather and climate through Accuweather and RainCheckPH; and enjoy stories via Wattpad.
They may also check out free programs and trainings on the official website of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority at TESDA.gov.ph; check employment opportunities on Jobstreet; browse items for sale on OLX.ph; gain financial literacy via PesosandSense and YourMoney.com; learn about women's issues in sites like BabyCenter & MAMA and Girl Effect; and access health information on UNICEF's Facts for Life.
"We plan to really go out in the streets for this caravan and to reach as many people as possible-specifically the first time or beginners on Internet. These sessions are part of our ''Internet for All', advocacy and the goal of making useful information within reach of millions of Filipinos," ends Galvez.