Benguet capitol is new wi-fi hub

INTERNET users can now experience free wifi connection at the Benguet provincial capitol.

Benguet officials on Tuesday officially launched the public wifi hotspot powered by Smart WiFi allowing customers to access 30 minutes everday of free internet browsing with its fastest speed that can reach up to 100 megabits per second. Smart Relationship Manager Louie Metra also said Benguet is first in the Cordillera region to have free WiFi access. “You don't need to go to computer shop to connect through internet you have it here in the capitol,” added Metra. Leading the country’s digital transformation Jovy Hernandez, senior vice president and head of enterprise for PLDT and Smart said with the steppedup rollout of carrier grade Smart Wifi, PLDT continues to be at the forefront of the country’s digital transformation into a Smart Nation through better connectivity for all. Smart Wifi has a backhaul capacity of up to 100 megabits per second (expandable to 1 gigabit per second) which allows users to have the best digital experience when accessing their emails and social media accounts, downloading and sending files on-thego, and checking out

relevant digital content and services online. “With Smart Wifi now available in more regions throughout the Philippines, more Filipinos can now access high quality connections and use them to avail themselves of important government services, as well as stay connected via their social media while onthe-go,”

said Hernandez. “We are working with local government, schools, resorts and various establishments in bringing better connectivity to more people. We are thankful that we have them as partners in helping us set-up and maintain these Smart Wifi areas,” Hernandez added. Governor Crescencio Pacalso said the newly installed free internet connection will benefit students in doing their research and homework and allow better connectivity and help improve productivity in the province. The nationwide rollout of Smart Wifi complements the ongoing network expansion and modernization program across the country. The network upgrade has resulted in significant improvements in voice, SMS, and mobile Internet coverage and quality, particularly on its LTE (Long Term Evolution) service. All these form part of an overarching effort to make the Internet accessible to all.