The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) reaffirmed that only the government uses the dark fiber network built into its transmission grid communication system.
Manila Standard reported that NGCP operates a 6,154-kilometer fiber optic network integrated into the country’s power transmission grid, enabling robust communication across substations nationwide.
NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Perez-Alabanza clarified that while the network is allowed to generate commercial income under its concession agreement, it is not being used for private telecommunications purposes.
Instead, the NGCP has made portions of its dark fiber network available to the government at no cost, supporting the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) national broadband program.
Alabanza added that this partnership guarantees that the network is not contingent on third-party providers and is utilized for government initiatives.
The national broadband initiative, launched in 2017, aims to expand affordable and reliable internet access, especially in underserved areas. By leveraging NGCP’s infrastructure, the government hopes to boost the country’s average internet speed, narrowing the digital divide between urban and rural communities.
Alabanza also noted that 50% of any income derived from NGCP’s fiber optic network is mandated by law to reduce transmission rates, ultimately benefiting Filipino electricity consumers.
Filipinos stand to gain from this collaboration as it could potentially lower energy costs.
The NGCP, DICT, and National Transmission Corporation (TransCo) remain in close coordination to ensure the successful implementation of the national broadband project.
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