Bridging the digital divide through ‘barya-barya’ surfing

MANILA, Philippines - The Internet has significantly improved the lives of Filipinos by providing access to virtually unlimited information, communication, and entertainment possibilities.

Unfortunately, only three out of 10 Filipinos have access to the Internet, according to a report by the United Nations. Furthermore, the Philippines only had an average of 1.9 fixed Internet connections per 100 people in 2011, and only 15 percent of Philippine households had at least one Internet connection.

 Despite the limited access to Internet, whether owned or rented, its demand continues to significantly increase. Quite interestingly, the Philippines is still one of the top Internet users in the world, ranking second in Southeast Asia and 17th globally. 

 PLDT responds to this challenging situation by offering a solution that will make Internet access available to the masses, and at the same time, to empower aspiring minigosyantes with an affordable micro-business opportunity.

 In partnership with PC Express, Intel, and Radiowealth Finance Co., PLDT introduced the idea of Barya-Barya Surfing, through Cyberya – an integrated entrepreneurial solution for Filipinos who want to start their own ‘minigosyo’, and provide convenient, affordable Internet access solution to customers.

Empowering ‘minigosyantes’

Through Cyberya, PLDT empowers ‘minigosyantes’ with an affordable business opportunity. The integrated package takes the concept of an Internet café by providing Internet rental service. This idea was further enhanced by providing a complete solution: the PC package with reliable software, powered by a strong broadband connection.

The package was created to help the minigosyantes reach where their market is. As the PC and broadband hardware are conveniently enclosed in a compact, mobile unit, it can be placed virtually anywhere with high foot traffic, such as sari-sari stores, roadside eateries or carinderias, and even at barbershops and salons.

“This is a low-cost, low-maintenance but high-profit business solution, ideal for microbusiness owners who wish to add more income but have limited financial capacity in starting up or expanding their business,” said PLDT Home Voice Solutions vice president, Patrick Tang.

Cyberya is powered by PLDT’s wireless broadband, which is able to provide reliable connections with its robust network.  The hardware and software are supplied by PC Express and Intel, while RFC provides an affordable financing scheme for interested micro-entrepreneurs.

Internet for all

Nowadays, more transactions are being coursed through the Internet, such as for businesses and banking. Similarly, information for health and education has become more accessible, and establishing connections are simpler with ease of communication. These are just some of the powerful ways the Internet is enriching every Filipino’s lives – and these can now be experienced by the Filipino masses.

With Cyberya, customers will be able to access the Internet for as low as P1 per four minutes. Those who typically cannot afford to buy their own computers or laptops and to have their own broadband subscription will now have access to the Internet and all the benefits it would bring in their day-to-day living.

“We are expanding our reach to the Filipino masses. We believe they are equally entitled to all the advantages of the Internet, “said PLDT President and Chief Executive Officer Napoleon Nazareno. “As part of PLDT’s thrust toward nation building, PLDT is able to realize its mission of transforming and uplifting the lives of Filipinos by taking the initiative to provide Internet access to all, as well as to help microbusinesses in becoming more profitable and sustainable.”