Aiming to support the Filipinos in achieving inclusive growth, Google hosted its first-ever Google for Philippines event, announcing key updates and products intended to bring convenience including Google Station, Google Go, and Google My Business, among others.
Banking on the ‘para sa bayan, para sa lahat,’ theme, Google Philippines Country Manager Kenneth Lingan said that the new announcements is in line with Google’s commitment in “enabling connectivity and access to the internet; providing relevant and useful content; and localized products experiences for all.”
“The internet is creating opportunities for individuals and business to connect, learn and grow, which is reflected in the economic growth the country has seen in the last five years. However,we can only sustain this growth by building a strong foundation for inclusive growth, where every Filipino can participate, contribute, and benefit. We believe technology can play a critical role in making this happen,” Lingan said.
One of the main highlights of the event is the launching of the Google Station, the company’s platform in bringing accessible and easy connection to people. Initiated in partnership with Smart and PLDT, through Google Station, people can connect to high quality WiFi connection in public locations nationwide.
Google Station
By end of February, Google Station will be available in the following venues: LRT 2 stations, MRT 3 stations, NAIA Terminals 1 - 4, Araneta Bus Port, Cebu South Bus Terminal, Clark International Airport, Davao International Airport, Port of Batangas, Ateneo De Naga University, Bohol Island State University, Bukidnon State University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba, Columban College, Inc., Cebu Technological University, Holy Cross of Davao College, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Southern Luzon State University, University of Cebu - Main Campus, City Hall of Baguio, City Hall of Mandaluyong, Ali Mall, and Gateway Mall.
Another fresh platform is the Google Go, a new app revamping the use of Google Search. Tailor-made for users coming online for the first time, Google Go is like a one-stop search app where useful content is easily accessible. Google Go also works smoothly even for entry-level devices with low RAM and 2G connections.
Google Go
Google has also reintroduced the Google My Business, a free and easy-to-use tool for businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Maps. Initially launched in 2015, Google My Business helps MSMEs create a free mobile-optimized website in under ten minutes, and interact with customers by reading and responding to reviews.
Google My Business
From supporting MSMEs to empowering women, Google has also launched Digiskarteng Pinay, a program aiming to provide a destination for women to learn various skills at their convenience. Digiskarteng Pinay will showcase series of YouTube videos related to upskilling which will be produced by non-profit, government agencies, brands, and YouTube creator partners.
Another announcement off the Google for Philippines event is the Jobs on Google Search feature which will go live on a latter date. With this, Google targets to easily explore job vacancies from popular websites, job listing platforms, online classifieds, and corporate sites.
Google has also amplified Google Maps, which now has new features like number coding, motorbike mode for iOS users, and Boracay Street View.