EDSA Busway commuters now get free WiFi at 17 major stations
(Manila Bulletin file photo)
Commuters can now get free access to internet connection with speed of up to 60 Mbps while waiting for the next bus across 17 stations of EDSA Busway through the government’s Free WiFi program.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) teamed up with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to launch the program aimed at making the EDSA Busway more modern and commuter-friendly.
The DOTr said providing free, secure, and reliable internet access within the station premises will enhance the commuter experience in the busway, while supporting digital inclusion.
“This service enables commuters to access online government services, conduct digital transactions, obtain information, and engage in educational and entertainment activities while in transit,” it said.
The free internet service is installed at the stations of Fernando Poe Jr. (Roosevelt), Balintawak, Kaingin, North Avenue, SM North EDSA, PhilAm, Quezon Avenue, Kamuning, Nepa Q-Mart, Main Avenue, SM Megamall (Ortigas), Ayala, Buendia, Taft Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, Tramo, and SM Mall of Asia (MOA).
Each station hosts a Celerway Stratus device, a type of mobile router, with GOMO and Smart SIM cards that aggregate mobile data connections.
Connection speed per user will depend on the number of users simultaneously accessing the service, but average speeds range from 10 to 20 Mbps during peak hours to between 40 to 60 Mbps.
The WiFi has an effective range of approximately 15 to 45 meters, which can support up to 100 simultaneous users.
The DICT said it utilizes Domain Name System (DNS) security, alongside employing active monitoring, to protect all users using the WiFi.
The internet service is limited to a 12-hour session limit and resets daily, after which users may reconnect.
Following their rehabilitation, the stations in Monumento, Bagong Barrio, and Guadalupe will also be equipped with the internet devices.
The upcoming stations in Cubao, Magallanes and Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), set to begin construction within the quarter, will also have free internet service.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the free WiFi program in the EDSA Busway is just another step in the government’s efforts to connect public transportation to online services.
Last year, the DICT and DOTr also collaborated to launch the program across the stations of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).
Aguda said the next step is to bring the connectivity inside the trains themselves, as well as other land transport systems and seaports.