In a groundbreaking move, Mayor Eliordo “Bebot” Ogena of Koronadal City announced the provision of internet access to indigenous communities with the help of Starlink. This initiative aims to support UNESCO and NCCA representatives by offering satellite internet connectivity to the city’s 12 indigenous communities. The mayor believes that this technological advancement will contribute to the preservation of tribal culture for future generations.
The Philippines has made significant strides in digitalization efforts under the leadership of President Bongbong Marcos. However, projects like the one in Koronadal exemplify how futuristic technologies can coexist with and even enhance long-standing traditions. It serves as a remarkable example of how gadgets and programs can empower humans rather than replace them.
This article will delve into the satellite internet project in Koronadal, focusing on its impact on remote communities. Additionally, we will explore other technological developments in the Philippines to demonstrate the country’s rapid progress.
Now, let’s examine why Koronadal chose to utilize Starlink for this project. Mayor Eliordo Ogena acknowledges the significance of Mindanao’s indigenous culture. Traditionally, these communities have preserved their culture through oral storytelling and recording stories. However, the mayor recognizes that knowledge sharing has shifted to the Internet in modern times. Therefore, he took the initiative to provide Starlink access to Koronadal City. Ogena expressed his excitement about the project on Twitter, stating, “Utilizing @Starlink, I am excited to empower & connect the School of Living Traditions of our constellation of remote indigenous communities from Mindanao’s Blaan Tribe as they continue to teach, preserve, & share their beautiful culture & arts with the next generation.”
This project not only facilitates cultural preservation but also helps Starlink attract more Filipino subscribers. In addition, the satellite internet company has launched an exclusive promotion, allowing Filipinos to purchase an internet kit for ₱19,999 instead of $29,230 until August 2023.
Apart from the Koronadal project, the Philippines has undertaken other noteworthy technological endeavors. In response to the potential benefits and risks of artificial intelligence (AI), Philippine lawmakers have swiftly taken action. Representative Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Norte Second District submitted a national AI Bill to the House of Representatives on March 1, 2023. House Bill #7396 proposes the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence Development Authority (AIDA), which would be responsible for developing and implementing a national AI strategy. The bill aims to harness AI’s potential to enhance productivity, improve public service delivery, and drive economic growth. Simultaneously, it addresses the risks and challenges associated with AI, emphasizing the need to maximize its benefits and minimize negative impacts.
Furthermore, the Philippines has also utilized blockchain technology to promote indigenous culture. For instance, CEO and Creative Director Victor Baguilat introduced the Ifugao weaves as the Kandama NFT collection. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have become a means of recording ownership of physical and digital goods on blockchains or cryptocurrency networks. Baguilat recognized the potential of NFTs and their relevance to his project, stating, “When I heard that some brands that are familiar to me started doing NFTs, that’s when I realized that maybe that’s really the right direction.”
In conclusion, the city of Koronadal in the Philippines has taken a significant step towards bridging the digital divide by providing internet access to remote indigenous communities through Starlink. This initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Ogena, aims to empower these communities and enable them to promote their indigenous cultures online. The Philippines as a whole has made remarkable progress in digitalization, with endeavors such as AI legislation and blockchain integration in indigenous culture promotion. As global digitalization continues to evolve, it is crucial for countries to stay prepared and informed. Stay updated on the latest digital tips and trends by visiting Inquirer Tech.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
