Free WiFi in PH airports: DOTr partners with Converge for fiber internet

Fiber internet provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is partnering with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to provide free WiFi services in nine airports across the country.

On Tuesday, Converge ICT launched its free WiFi project at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 4.

It made available for travelers at NAIA 4 up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) internet access for 120 minutes.

NAIA 4 is the first terminal to be launched in the project under the company’s agreement with the government.

Last year, Converge ICT signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the DOT, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), and Davao International Airport Authority (DIAA) for its free public WiFi project.

Converge is targeting to roll out its free WiFi services across all terminals of NAIA as well the Francisco Bangoy International Airport/Davao International Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Bacolod-Silay Airport, Iloilo International Airport, Laoag International Airport, Pagadian Airport, Tacloban Airport, and Zamboanga International Airport.

“Internet connectivity is among the top complaints of travelers when it comes to airport amenities. We want to do our part in enhancing the Philippines’ image and reputation to foreign and domestic travelers through this connectivity project,” said Converge ICT CEO and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

“Local and international travelers can maximize our fiber-fast connection especially in digitally-supported processes in checking in and boarding, or even just surfing while waiting for departure or upon their arrival,” said Uy.

"This initiative aligns perfectly with the Manila International Airport Authority's vision of a modern and technologically advanced transportation system. By offering free WiFi, we create an environment that encourages digital innovation and provides a platform for the development and implementation of various digital services. It showcases our dedication to providing passengers with a seamless travel experience from the moment they step foot in our NAIA terminals," said MIAA officer-in-charge Bryan Co.

According to the MIAA, some 1.7 million international passengers traveled through NAIA in April of 2023, with 9,089 flight movements.

Combined with figures for domestic flights, NAIA registered a total of 3.7 million passengers, and 22,816 flights during the same month. —VAL, GMA Integrated News