MANILA, Philippines – The use of new technologies that leverage existing technology is a novel way of getting more out of everyday tech. 

The Philippines is also getting in on the act with a push towards using TV White Space (TVWS) technology for increasing Internet penetration in the Philippines. 

Louis Casambre, undersecretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), told reporters at a recent press conference the Information and Communications Technology Office (ICTO) is planning to use TVWS technologies to improve wireless data communications before June this year.

Said Casambre, “With the cost of computers and access devices going down significantly, connectivity is the issue that needs to be addressed.” 

He added, “A good portion of our population lives in remote areas with no internet or wired broadband internet access infrastructure, essentially excluding them from the benefits and building capacity of the Internet.”

TV White Space technology refers to technology that takes advantage of the unused UHF and VHF television frequencies for data communications.

By leveraging TVWS technology, Casambre hopes it can be used to provide greater Internet penetration and support government projects requiring data connectivity, such as relief efforts.

Early tests for broadband connectivity through TVWS are being done in specific remote and unserved public schools in Bohol. Another pilot application in testing looks to offer connectivity for the Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries, or Ecofish, project in Talibon and Tubigon, Bohol.

While TVWS is still experimental, Casambre looks forward to the future, saying that he is “confident that we can make this happen and are excited about what TV White Spaces can do for the Philippines.” – Rappler.com