DICT opens up gates for more satellite systems players in the PH!

The Department of Information and Communications Technology is inviting more satellite-based ISPs to expand their operations in the country.

File photo: DICT logo

DICT promised to streamline the accreditation process for satellite ISPs

DICT Undersecretary Maria Victoria C. Castro, DICT Director Maria Teresa Magno-Garcia, DICT consultant Atty. Ira Paulo Pozon as well as industry players from BOI Investments, FICTAP, Globe Telecom, Kacific, PCTA, PCTO, SES, Smart Communications, SpaceX, and USAID were present during the public consultation.

During the event, DICT Acting Secretary Emmanuel Rey Caintic suggests that satellite systems providers should "intensify their corporate presence" and contribute to the digital transformation of the country.

According to Caintic, the DICT would continue to provide an enabling environment, especially for new players. He added that the DICT would look into streamlining the accreditation process while also giving policy support to satellite ISPs.

Director Elias Omar A. Sana, on the other hand, revealed that the agency will utilize an online submission platform where applicants can conveniently submit their requirements.

Meanwhile, DICT Undersecretary Alan A. Silor highlighted the importance of satellite connectivity in the country.

Even if we have good ICT infrastructures, they are vulnerable to natural disasters. This is when the advantages of satellite connectivity are especially realized. Getting bandwidth from satellite providers is also the way to go for Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged areas or GIDA sites where laying fiber cables is difficult.

To recall, the DICT through its attached agency, the National Telecommunications Commission, gave the approval to Starlink to provide services in the Philippines recently. This means that the country is the first in Southeast Asia to avail of the services provided by the satellite constellation.

Any thoughts on this?

Source: DICT