Consumer group calls for creation of ‘connectivity rating index’

File photo from Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines — A consumer group called on the national government to establish a “connectivity rating index” to serve as a benchmark for both government and private institutions amid digitization efforts.

CitizenWatch Philippines pointed out the country’s lack of a metric system to determine the quality of connectivity a specific institution has.

“We have long suffered a mismatch between demand for internet services in public spaces and the quality provided by those in charge of these spaces,” said CitizenWatch Philippines Co-convener Tim Abejo in a recent statement.

“The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., given its avowed commitment to digitally transform the country, should engage in a public-private collaboration that would establish a Connectivity Index Rating in all public and private buildings,” he added.

Abejo explained that the lack of such a metric system leaves the general public with no way of knowing whether they could go online in these places.

“It’s become a guessing game, something that depends on luck,” he said.

“It should not be so difficult to determine the number of foot traffic of an establishment and properly match this data to design optimal coverage and broadband network configurations that would provide a satisfactory experience for internet users in a particular location,” he added.

According to Abejo, the national government should establish a connectivity index that is easy to understand; displayed prominently in public spaces to give people an idea of the quality of the Internet connection inside public premises and to push establishments to ensure digital connectivity.

“Having a connectivity index rating of an establishment publicly displayed or available online will affect the image of an institution and will force building owners to take steps to ensure high-quality digital connectivity for their users,” Abejo said.

He suggested that the rating system should be simple for the public to understand.

“Ensuring fast connectivity and adequate coverage in government buildings is a fundamental element of the President’s E-Government initiatives aimed to enhance the delivery of government services. A Connectivity Index Rating for all public and private buildings will help boost a systemic digital transformation that our country needs to become competitive in a global digital economy,” Abejo said.

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