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Introduction
The introduction of Wi-Fi technology had a gradual impact in the Philippines as it transformed the
Filipinos perception of entertainment, work, and communication. As an archipelagic nation
comprising over 7,600 islands, the Philippines faced difficulties in establishing internet
connectivity, especially in rural areas. However, the widespread adoption of Wi-Fi technology
continued and consequently, it became a double-edged sword towards Philippine society.
Significant Impacts
Impact of Internet Service Providers
Wi-Fi is a technology that is availed. This wireless technology is sold to us by internet service
providers which allows an individual to connect to the internet (a large connection of networks).
Historically, the Philippine internet market has been dominated by two major ISPs: PLDT and
Globe Telecom which has control around 80% of the market. Thanks to them, a lot of households
around the Philippines are connected now to the internet, meaning that they can access thousands
of resources. In consequence, it rendered the market to be vulnerable to anti-competitive conducts.
The lack of competition has often resulted into high prices and poor service quality, as companies
who are monopolizing the market will gain no incentive in improving their service.
In recent years, there have been developments in the ISPs industry as new competitors like DITO
Telecommunity and Converge ICT have entered the market, challenging the monopolies by PLDT
and GLOBE. There marketing is directly inclined to what the duopolies are lacking at providing
which are competitive pricings and superior speeds for various models. This influx of competition
has begun a shift on consumer perceptions and expectations regarding the internet services they
receive as this country moves into the digital economy.
ISPs in the Philippines have increasingly adopted fiber optic technology as it helps in the
improvement of internet speeds and reliability. Since fiber optics allow for higher bandwidth
capabilities, it enables ISPs to offer faster and more consistent service to consumers. Even
advancements in wireless technology by the rollouts of 4G LTE and 5G networks have increased
by the rise of ISPs. These networks enable faster mobile internet access, enhancing Wi-Fi
connectivity in urban areas where it is heavily relied on.
Socio-Cultural Impacts due to social media
Wi-Fi and social media aren’t two things that can’t be separated since you need Wi-Fi (although
not exclusively) to access social media. Wi-Fi has transformed the way Filipinos communicate.
As much as 83% of internet users engage on social media platforms indicating that the Philippines
has one of the highest rates of social media penetration globally (Brutas, 2015). This shift has
transformed conversations from face-to-face interactions to digital platforms, enabling instant
messaging and video calls through applications like Facebook Messenger, Discord, Viber,
WhatsApp, and Instagram. The convenience that Wi-Fi has provided for us indicated the
importance of daily communication, regardless of physical distance.
Since Wi-Fi provides a way of communication regardless of physical distance, it has been a
gateway for sustaining relationships, especially among OFWs. This has allowed parents and
relatives to communicate with their families back in the Philippines through video calls and
messaging which helps in mitigating the feelings of isolation and disconnection between families.
Even if it’s a digital presence only, it has allowed families to support one another.
The effects of Wi-Fi aren’t limited to conversations and relationships in social media. Its an
entrance to a different kind of entertainment that an individual can enjoy without living their
comfort zones. Memes in particular have been popular to a million of individuals in the
Philippines. It has served as a medium of cultural expression and social commentary, allowing
Filipinos to connect over shared experiences and humor.
Economic Impact
Wi-Fi played a significant role in the Philippine economy at it enabled the country to be more
focus on digitalizing a lot of work and providing more opportunities.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a role in hastening the adoption of Work-from-Home
arrangements in many sectors. According to a survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority during
2021-2022, approximately 27% of establishments has implemented remote work setups, a major
shift in work practices. Although, its adoption has been facing challenges mostly due to
intermittent internet connection, difficulty in monitoring employees, and difficulty communicating
with employees.
Even as WFH setups are facing difficulties, it still poses a benefit as it reduces overhead costs
associated in maintaining physical office spaces while providing employees with flexibility and
work-life balance. This is how Wi-Fi technology has disrupted the traditional business
environments by enabling digital transformation across different sectors. This has allowed big or
small businesses to compete for a larger market using online selling platforms like Lazada, Shopee,
or Amazon. Tech startups like Grab, Food Panda, Gcash, and Angkas has taken advantage of this
opportunity. They utilized the cover of the internet to deliver convenient and efficient services to
Filipino consumers, ultimately driving substantial success.
Rise of Cybercrime in the Philippines
Wi-Fi isn’t immune on being abused by individuals to harm others. The Philippines has seen an
increase in 14% cyber identity theft cases in 2023. Cybercriminals use tactics such as phishing
attacks, malware distribution, and social engineering to take advantage of victims that are using
unsecured public Wi-Fi networks or scams in messages.
This alarming rise in cyber identity theft in the Philippines reflects the broader vulnerabilities
introduced by the growth of Wi-Fi technology. Unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, such as cafes
and malls, are often vulnerable to attacks since these networks often lack robust encryption,
making it easier to intercept data. Individuals accessing sensitive accounts, especially online
banking, on these networks can expose their credentials and personal information.
In response, the Philippine Government has introduced the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP)
2023-2028, emphasizing on proactive protection and security in cyberspace, increase
cybersecurity workforce, and strengthened cybersecurity policies. Regardless of the governments
plan, use vigilance is still critical. Individuals should use virtual private networks, avoid accessing
sensitive information on public networks, being wary of text messages/offers, avoiding clicking
on unknown websites, and regularly updating their devices to protect against security threats.
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