The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will soon be measuring and rating internet speed quality in the Philippines as indicated in the newly signed Connectivity Index Rating.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the DICT and telecommunications companies Globe, PLDT, Smart, DITO, and Converge, aims to establish a standardized Connectivity Index Rating across the Philippines.

“The Connectivity Index Rating is also seen to push businesses to innovate and invest in quality connectivity solutions that will, among others, increase brand recognition and expand their customer base,” Secretary Ivan Uy of the DICT said in a statement. 

The Connectivity Index Rating, proposed by the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) is designed to be a user-friendly measure of the quality of internet experience within indoor spaces. 

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Rating criteria

“Through this rating, public and private sector players will be able to easily identify areas that need connectivity improvement, leading to efficient and effective network investments,” said Ernest Cu, president and CEO of the Globe Group. 

The rating parameters include speed, accessibility, availability, and security of internet services. This will offer a valuable reference point for property owners and government institutions to determine the required level of connectivity relative to the user traffic within a specific area or building.

“This initiative is aligned with the PLDT Group’s commitment to ensure the highest possible quality of internet and connectivity service for all Filipinos, as well as support the Government’s thrust to digitally transform the Philippines,” said Alfred Panlilio, president and CEO, PLDT and Smart.

The MoU formalizes the agreement of telcos under PSAC to create a technical working group that will establish a benchmark to which property owners and state agencies will adhere in rightsizing connectivity based on demand. The Index seeks to encourage mall developers, property owners, local government units, government agencies, and enterprises to right-size their fiber connectivity subscriptions to provide quality connectivity based on foot-traffic demand, as well as encourage the deployment of digital connectivity solutions, especially inside buildings.