Public schools get free fiber broadband internet from Globe

Globe Telecom rolls out its fiber broadband internet connection in public schools to encourage adoption and application of technology among students and teachers in line with the company’s vision of ushering the Philippines into becoming a digital nation by 2020.

The initial recipient of Globe fiber connectivity with speeds of up to 100 mbps is Manila Science High School (MaSci), the first pilot science high school in the Philippines located in Taft Ave., Manila.  It is one of the schools under Globe Telecom’s Global Filipino School (GFS) program, a long-term educational initiative designed to transform select public schools into centers of excellence in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and innovative teaching methods.  

As a GFS, MaSci enjoys free internet service; ICT tools for learning such as tablets, netbooks, projectors, and a mobile cart; and teacher training on how to maximize technology in the classroom.  MaSci Batch 91, on the other hand, will provide a collaborative working space in the school.

 “With today’s fast-paced advancements in technology and ever changing educational landscape, we would like our schools to take advantage of the best educational information and services that they can get. If all local government units will work with us to realize our vision of developing connected communities, other GFS schools aside from MaSci would likewise be able enjoy the enormous benefits of high-speed internet such as higher download and upload speeds, lower latency, and faster internet browsing which bring dynamic resources into the classrooms,” said Martha Sazon, Globe Senior Vice President for Broadband Business.

Globe Telecom and Manila Science High School (MaSci) Silver Jubilarians (Batch 1991) showcase their collaborative efforts to make MaSci a Global Filipino School. (L-R): Martha Sazon, Globe Senior VP For Broadband Business, Atty. Laura C.H. del Rosario and Ma. Margarita U.  Baula , Masci '91 25th Alumni Homecoming Steering Committee Representatives; Dr. Dante Bermas, Education Program Supervisor, DepEd Division Office of Manila; Eva Nacion, MaSci School Principal.

There are, at present, 80 schools under GFS impacting more than 7,000 teachers and 40,000 students around the country with 60 more GFS schools to be launched next year. Globe aims to share the GFS Program to all 221 DepEd divisions by 2020.

A 2015 study released by Taylor Nelson Sofres, shows how the GFS program was able to improve digital skills among teachers and students, particularly on usage of mobile technology and computer software; enable 21st Century Learning Outcomes such as creativity, communication, collaboration and creativity; increase student engagement in classroom activities; and enhance school culture through readiness in ICT integration. 

Early this year, Globe appealed to local government units to support the deployment of fiber optics in 20,000 barangays by 2020, which will provide ultra-fast internet access to around two million homes nationwide. Parallel to this, Globe will also pour significant investment in capacity enhancement for both mobile and wireline using different technologies that include 3G, LTE and even Wi-Fi. The city government of Manila, led by Mayor Joseph Estrada, was the first LGU to respond to the call.

For more information on how you can contribute to the GFS program, visit www.globalfilipinoschools.com, TEXT GFS to 21580-437 for donations, or email bridgecom@globe.com.ph for partnership opportunities.