Connecting the Unconnected: Eastern Advances Inclusive Education Through Connectivity and Digital Literacy Efforts

Eastern Communications, in partnership with Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd), during the “Project Maaasahan” official  turnover of connectivity tools to Namabbalan Elementary School in Tuguegarao City.

Eastern Communications, the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider, continues to exceed expectations in championing digital equity and inclusive progress through its sustained community and digital literacy efforts. The company's initiatives, led by its digital enablement program, Project Maaasahan, are advancing access to connectivity and digital literacy for underserved communities, ensuring that every Filipino has the tools to thrive in a digital-first world.

Bringing connectivity where it matters

The Philippines continues to face a significant digital divide. According to the World Bank, the access gap in broadband internet between social classes is rapidly expanding, with fixed broadband penetration in the top wealth quintile being significantly higher than in the bottom quintile.

This disparity is further highlighted in a study by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), which shows that while 92% of barangays have access to a cellular signal, only about 12% have access to free Wi-Fi, and about 29% have access to fiber optic cable. These statistics underscore the urgent need for initiatives that directly address connectivity and infrastructure gaps, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).

Eastern Communications is tackling this challenge head-on with Project Maaasahan, a multi-year initiative in partnership with unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd). The program aims to bring vital internet connectivity to 10 GIDA schools across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Through this initiative, Eastern will provide free internet access and digital literacy programs to students, teachers, and their communities. To date, 4 out of 10 target sites have been successfully connected, with satellite devices fully functional and official turnovers completed.

“Our mission is to help close the digital divide by connecting the unconnected,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Eastern Communications. “We believe in the power of connectivity to transform lives. By providing these schools with the right tools, we are not just giving them internet access; we are opening up a world of information and opportunity, and helping to secure a brighter future for our young learners.”

Internet access reaches more learners

The impact is already being felt on the ground, with over 805 students and 30 teaching staff from the connected sites now having access to the internet. Among the first beneficiaries are Panicuason Elementary School in Naga City, San Jose Elementary School in Dipolog City, Namabbalan Integrated School in Tuguegarao City, and Pao-Pao High School in General Santos City.

For Panicuason Elementary School Principal Winnife Urot, Project Maaasahan represents more than just a CSR effort. "This is a partnership with purpose, anchored in love for Filipino learners and belief that education is the greatest equalizer," she said.

In General Santos City, the access to connectivity is a game-changer for Pao-Pao High School's 340 students, many of whom are from indigenous communities and travel up to four hours a day to attend classes.

Eastern Communications, Pao-Pao High School and DepEd representatives at the official turnover of connectivity tools for Pao-Pao High School in General Santos City

"Ang dating pangarap lamang na magkaroon ng maayos, mabilis at maaasahang internet connection, ay isa nang katuparan ngayon," shared Mr. Dexter Tejedor, Principal of Pao-Pao High School. "Ang Project Maaasahan ay hindi lamang koneksyon sa internet. Ito ay tulay ng pag-asa, pag-unlad, at pagbabago. Patunay ito na kahit nasa tuktok ng bundok, ang kaalaman at oportunidad, ay maaaring umabot sa bawat batang mag-aaral."

(Translation: "What was once just a dream of having a good, fast and reliable internet connection is now a reality. Project Maaasahan is not just about providing connectivity. It is a bridge of hope, progress, and change.It is proof that even at the top of a mountain, knowledge and opportunity can still reach every student.")

Nurturing the next generation of innovators

Furthering its advocacy for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, Eastern Communications continues to foster digital literacy through its partnerships with organizations like TeamAsia and the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. (PAOFI).

The company once again collaborated with the My Dream in a Shoebox (MDIAS) program, providing 100 public school student beneficiaries from PAOFI with an immersive visit to The Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The activity included a Tech Career Talk from Eastern’s own employees to inspire students to pursue opportunities in the technology sector, culminating in the gift-giving of Dream Kits filled with essential learning materials.

With its sustained investments in Project Maaasahan and other education-focused partnerships, Eastern Communications reaffirms its belief that education is the greatest equalizer. By delivering both “High Tech” solutions and a “High Touch” approach, the company remains committed to building a digitally empowered Philippines where every learner has the chance to connect, learn, and succeed.

To learn more about Eastern Communications and its commitment to social responsibility, please call 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph. For more information on how to support the My Dream in a Shoebox initiative, visit www.shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com.

Eastern Communications partners with TeamAsia’s My Dream in a Shoebox once again and takes public school students on a trip to The Mind Museum.

Eastern Communications, in partnership with Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd), during the “Project Maaasahan” official  turnover of connectivity tools to Namabbalan Elementary School in Tuguegarao City.

Bringing Reliable Connectivity to More Communities: Eastern Communications Furthers its Reach in Mindanao

Dipolog City welcomes Eastern Communications telecommunications and ICT services. [From L to R:] Eastern Communications (EC) Event Host Apple Mendoza, Dipolog City Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Atty. Paul Gudmalin, EC Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan, Dipolog City Councilor Harry Young, EC Regional Sales Head Anthony Co, EC Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, and EC Regional Sales Account Manager Jeck Sappayani

Eastern Communications, the Philippines’ pioneer telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, continues its mission to bridge the digital divide by officially expanding its services in two key cities in Mindanao: General Santos City and Dipolog City. Through its signature Via Eastern launch events, the telco celebrates its growing presence in Southern and Western Mindanao—empowering local communities, driving innovation, and supporting regional growth.

Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan said, “We’re excited to officially launch our services in General Santos and Dipolog, and to expand to more areas across Mindanao. Our presence in these key digital cities reflects Eastern Communications’ continued mission to transform how businesses in manufacturing, retail, IT-BPM, and MSME sectors operate, helping them better serve their communities and drive inclusive progress across the cities. By equipping enterprises of all sizes with reliable connectivity and future-ready ICT solutions, we’re building a digital foundation that empowers communities, fuels regional economies, and drives long-term, inclusive development.”

Empowering General Santos: The Tuna Capital of the Philippines

Eastern Communications receives a warm welcome from General Santos City and receives support from GenSan business chambers, ICT organizations, media friends and government officials.

On August 12, Eastern Communications marked its official entry into General Santos City with a launch held at the Grand Summit Hotel. General Santos continues to rise as a vital hub for trade and innovation, taking the spot as the 15th most competitive city in the country and 3rd among highly urbanized cities in Mindanao in the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI). 

"This partnership opens new doors for our businesses, government, and communities, allowing us to connect better, work smarter, and innovate faster. We look forward to collaborating with Eastern Communications in building a more inclusive, progressive and future-ready GenSan," said General Santos City Councilor Michael Pacquiao.

General Santos City or GenSan is home to six of the nation’s seven tuna canneries and employs over 200,000 individuals and serves as a key driver of the Philippines’ fishery exports. To support this thriving industrial hub, the government-led Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) has initiated the rehabilitation of the General Santos Fish Port Complex, further strengthening the city’s vital contribution to the industry. 

Eastern’s expansion brings advanced digital solutions tailored to support key local industries, including manufacturing, retail, MSMEs, tourism, agriculture, and the growing IT-BPM sector.

With business-grade connectivity services like Eastern Fiber 1 and Internet Direct Service (IDS), local enterprises benefit from fast, secure, and scalable internet, essential for boosting productivity and meeting global business standards to stay competitive in international markets.

For the agricultural sectors in Mindanao, consistent enterprise-grade internet is critical to support agritech applications such as cloud-based platforms, agricultural robotics, and automated machinery, helping farmers monitor crops, predict weather, and grow more successful harvests.

Meanwhile, for the region’s canning companies and smart manufacturing, business-grade internet is no longer optional, it’s a necessity for meeting international standards, achieving global competitiveness, and expanding to global markets. Reliable, high-speed connectivity enables real-time inventory tracking, smart aquaculture operations, seamless coordination across production lines, and efficient logistics and export operations such as blockchain-based traceability systems.

Unlocking Digital Growth in Dipolog: The Gateway to Western Mindanao

On July 22, Eastern Communications held its launch at D’Hotel & Suites in Dipolog City, capital of Zamboanga del Norte. Known as the “Gateway to Western Mindanao,” Dipolog is quickly emerging as a business hub, powered by growing tourism, trade, and logistics infrastructure. In the 2024 CMCI rankings, Zamboanga del Norte climbed to 47th in economic dynamism nationwide, with Dipolog retaining its title as the Most Competitive Component City in Region 9.

“In this fast-paced, digital age, connectivity is not just a luxury, it is a necessity. Reliable communication bridges communities, empowers businesses, and connects our people to a wider world of possibilities. With Eastern Communications now part of our local landscape, we are assured of better access to technology and services that will help our communities thrive and compete,” said Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Governor DareI Uy.

“This development reflects a shared belief that "Bag-ong Zanorte" is ready for the future. Let this launch be a reminder to all of us that progress is best achieved when we work hand in hand-government, private sector, and the community. Together, we can ensure that no Zanortehanon is left out of the opportunities that the digital age brings,” added Governor Uy.

Driving Inclusive Progress Through Connectivity

While over 50 million Filipinos are now online, regions in Mindanao still face gaps in internet access. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that internet connectivity in Mindanao remains low, with only 28.5% of households in the Zamboanga Peninsula being connected. This highlights the urgent need to expand internet infrastructure as a foundation for meaningful digital transformation in the region. Eastern Communications is working to bridge this gap by establishing strong digital foundations and has connected key Mindanao areas, including Davao, Zamboanga, Butuan, and Cagayan de Oro. Backed by its recent network infrastructure expansion, the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), Eastern continues to build digital resilience and drive inclusive growth in the country, one city at a time. 

As part of its Mindanao expansion, Eastern Communications is now equipping enterprises in General Santos and Dipolog with future-ready digital tools, helping fuel inclusive growth, strengthen industries, and prepare communities for a more connected tomorrow.

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ business-grade internet, cloud, cybersecurity, and other ICT solutions, visit eastern.com.ph or talk to us at 0919-081-7788 or 0917-300-7788.

Eastern Communications' "Project Maaasahan" official turnover ceremony to its beneficiary school, San Jose Elementary School, bringing reliable connectivity to empower future leaders in Dipolog City.

Eastern Communications Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan expressed gratitude to Dipolog and Zamboanga del Norte partners and highlighted the benefits of Eastern’s presence, bringing reliable connectivity and innovative solutions closer to Dipolog’s citizens.

Eastern Communications’ expansion is backed by its joint infrastructure project, the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), spanning 2,500km.

Swinging Success: Eastern Communications Hosts First-Ever Golf Tournament for Top Clients

 

Eastern Communications and Link VIP Club loyal customers at the premier Golf Tournament held on July 17, 2025 in Laguna.

Eastern Communications recently held its inaugural golf tournament exclusively for its Titanium tier clients, the newest tier in its Link VIP Club loyalty program. This premier event honored the telco’s most loyal customers, and this will be followed by upcoming lifestyle events, including a movie premiere and bowling tournaments.

The Link VIP Club is Eastern Communications’ award-winning customer loyalty program, created to celebrate strong connections with its clients. This exclusive club reflects Eastern’s mission to go beyond expectations through personalized support, curated experiences, and its signature “Heart of Service” built on genuine care and meaningful connections.

Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Atty. Aileen Regio teeing off at the telco’s first Link VIP Club Golf Tournament in Laguna.

Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista teeing off at the telco’s first Link VIP Club Golf Tournament in Laguna.

To learn more about the Link VIP Club, its exclusive perks, and Eastern’s full suite of services, visit eastern.com.ph or call 5300-7000.

Eastern Communications Backs Government Agenda for a Digital-First PH

Eastern Communications, in partnership with Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd), officially launched “Project Maaasahan” with the turnover of connectivity tools to its first beneficiary, Panicuason Elementary School, in Naga City.

Eastern Communications upholds its support for the Philippine government’s digital-first agenda, rolling out initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and expand access to quality education.  From supporting the May 2025 electoral count and bringing internet access to remote schools to expanding its regional footprint, Eastern Communications is exceeding expectations in strengthening the country’s digital foundations.

“As a trusted technology partner, Eastern Communications is proud to stand alongside the government and like-minded private organizations in advancing digital transformation across the country,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications. “Through our efforts in connectivity, digital education, and regional expansion, we remain focused on enabling progress and inclusive growth for Filipinos everywhere.”

With a strong commitment to nation-building, Eastern Communications reinforces its mission of making technology more accessible for every Filipino by empowering institutions, communities, and individuals in today’s increasingly digital society.

Reliable connection for 2025 elections and remote classrooms

Eastern Communications played a vital role in supporting the May 2025 electoral process by providing stable and secure connectivity during the official vote count held at The Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila. The telco provider’s reliable services enabled seamless real-time reporting and operations throughout the high-stakes national event.

“[Eastern’s] provision of reliable and high-quality connectivity services played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted transmission of data and communications throughout the entire electoral process,” said Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, expressed his gratitude in a formal letter for Eastern Communications’ support during the official vote count.

“In moments when precision, efficiency, and transparency were paramount, [Eastern’s] commitment to service excellence significantly contributed to the integrity and success of this important national event,” Lina added.

Eastern Communications also strengthened its advocacy for inclusive digital access through its reaffirmed partnership with global non-profit Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd) to connect remote and underserved schools across the country. The initiative aims to bring internet connectivity to learners and educators in far-flung areas, providing them with the tools and opportunities to thrive in an evolving digital world.

Under this partnership, Eastern Communications has begun delivering internet connectivity to several schools this year, including Panicuason Elementary School in Naga on July 15, San Jose Elementary School in Dipolog on July 22, and Namabbalan Integrated School in Tuguegarao on July 24.

Additional schools slated for turnover in August are Paopao High School in General Santos, Capisan Elementary School in Zamboanga, Patrocino A. Lachica Integrated School in Aklan, and Alambre Elementary School in Davao. These schools represent a significant step in the initial phase of the program, with three more schools to follow in the coming months.

Growing presence in Mindanao, educating local IT talent

Eastern Communications is accelerating its regional expansion, with a particular focus on Mindanao. The telco provider is set to officially launch its services in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on July 22, 2025, followed by General Santos City in the third quarter. These launches are part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen its presence in emerging business centers and help stimulate local economies through improved digital infrastructure.

To provide a secure and robust infrastructure, Eastern expands its reach through an ultra high capacity backbone transmission Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (DWDM) Network. This cutting-edge technology delivers Terabits per second (TBPS) bandwidth, ensuring highly reliable and scalable connectivity across the country. Its capacity can also be replicated or expanded based on the demand, with spare fibers connecting various islands.

Alongside its connectivity rollouts, Eastern Communications continues to drive awareness and skills-building through its educational campaigns. Programs like “Access Eastern” and “Brown Bag Sessions” offer hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and learning opportunities for local IT professionals and community leaders, arming them with essential tools to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

“These initiatives are about more than connectivity, they’re about empowerment,” said Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista. “We believe that every Filipino deserves a seat at the digital table, and we’re doing our part to ensure that nobody is left behind.”

With over 145 years of service, Eastern Communications remains committed to its “High Tech” and “High Touch” promise, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized service that builds trust and drives impact. By working hand in hand with public and private stakeholders, Eastern Communications continues to be a trusted partner in driving forward vital initiatives to build a digitally empowered Philippines. 

To learn more about Eastern Communications and its initiatives, contact (02) 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Eastern Communications Ramps Up Activities for 2025 National ICT Month

Photo from the National Information and Communications Technology Summit 2025 (NICT2025)  

held at The Manila Hotel from June 19-20, 2025. 

In alignment with the Philippines’ nationwide push for digital transformation, Eastern  Communications extended its full support to the Chief Information Officers Forum Foundation,  Inc. (CIOFF) for this year’s National ICT Summit 2025 (NICT2025) — the culminating event of  National ICT Month. 

This year’s NICT2025 took place last June 19-20, 2025, at The Manila Hotel, with the theme:  “Transforming Together: Building an Inclusive Digital Nation.” 

As the official connectivity partner of the summit, Eastern Communications provided a seamless,  reliable internet connection for the event, making it more accessible for its online participants.  Through this collaboration, the company actively supports initiatives that promote innovation,  digital inclusion, and greater ICT awareness across the country.  

“At Eastern Communications, we continuously seek opportunities to support the country’s digital  advancement by way of strategic partnerships, digital education programs, and by empowering  communities with reliable and accessible connectivity,” said Eastern Communications Chief  Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan. 

Paglinawan also represented Eastern Communications as one of the panelists for Cebu Business Month’s (CBM) 2025 Technology and Innovation Forum held at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu. 

The telco provider will also roll out its latest “Brown Bag Session” and “Access Eastern” tech  workshops across Metro Manila and the new videos of its "Thoughts on Tech" video podcast as  part of its ICT month initiatives. 

Driving Nation-Building Through NICT Summit 2025 

Supported by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the  NICT2025 brought together national leaders, private sector innovators, and global ICT experts to  present strategies and technologies that advance inclusive digital development. 

The summit was joined by around 400 in-person delegates and 200–500 online participants,  including representatives from the academe, IT associations, private industry, and government  bodies. The event previewed the upcoming ASEAN CIO Association (ACIOA) 9th Forum in  Singapore this September, featuring thought leadership on digital transformation, AI,  cybersecurity, sustainability, and emerging tech trends shaping ASEAN’s future. 

Furthering its mission to support nation-building and empower Filipino communities through  technology, Eastern Communications is proud to be part of the annual National ICT Month  celebrations, observed every June under Presidential Proclamation No. 1521, s. 2008. 

Empowering Businesses Through Tech Workshops

Eastern Communications Senior Product Manager Edwin De Jesus shares key cybersecurity insights 

during the Access Eastern run held in Clark, Pampanga. 

Eastern Communications announces the return of its award-winning thought leadership events  with its annual “Access Eastern” tech workshops, and its new learning series, the Eastern “Brown  Bag Session.” These series of workshops will gather key opinion leaders in the technology sector  to build collaboration and drive digital transformation among businesses in the Philippines. The  dynamic lineup of sessions include: 

● Future-Proofing Philippine Retail Industry for next Gen Connectivity in partnership with  Huawei 

● Accelerating Innovation Through Next Gen/Emerging Technologies in partnership with  Cisco 

● Resilient IT-BPM Delivery Using Hybrid Cloud in partnership with CloudSigma ● Empowering Governance Through Emerging Technologies in partnership with  Nexusguard 

● Securing Distributed Teams with Zero Trust and SASE in partnership with CATO Networks ● Access Eastern: Solutions That Power Your Business with workshop runs in Clark &  Laguna 

These industry-focused tech workshops will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies  for businesses looking to leverage the latest technological advancements. 

"Thoughts on Tech" Podcast Returns with Ai & Digital Literacy Focus

Snapshot from the third season of Eastern Communications’ “Thoughts on Tech” video podcast series featuring 

host Danie Laurel and guest Tonichi Parekh, Vice President of Concentrix. 

Eastern Communications also launched the third series of its official video podcast, "Thoughts on  Tech," hosted by renowned news anchor and event host Danie Laurel. This series features  insightful conversations with industry leaders, focusing on ICT as a crucial enabler of progress  and why digital transformation is now a fundamental necessity for all businesses. 

The series will address the need for greater AI and ICT awareness among Philippine businesses.  Research from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) indicates that despite  national efforts for AI integration, local businesses, especially MSMEs, face challenges in  adoption due to barriers in infrastructure, awareness, and funding. As of 2021, only 14.9% of  businesses were using AI technologies, highlighting the early stages of AI adoption in the country. 

The "Thoughts on Tech" episodes are released weekly throughout June via Eastern’s official  Facebook and Youtube channel: 

● The Future of the Filipino Workforce in the Age of AI featuring Tonichi Parekh, Vice  President of Concentrix. 

● The Creator Economy, Its Challenges and Unique Trends with Marla De Castro Rausch,  President of Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP) and CEO of Animation Vertigo. 

● From Classroom to Boardroom: Integrating Digital Skills in Education with Aurelien Chu,  Co-Founder of Eskwelabs. 

● Code Red to Code Ready: Managing Risks in Modern Enterprises with Alvin Harilla,  Eastern Communications’ Enterprise Risk & Quality Management Head. 

Through these various initiatives, Eastern Communications supports the Philippines' digital  transformation journey by empowering businesses with knowledge and championing digital  literacy during the National ICT Month. 

OTHER PHOTOS: 

Photo from the National Information and Communications Technology Summit 2025 (NICT2025)  

panel discussion held at The Manila Hotel from June 19-20, 2025. 

Eastern Communications (EC) and CIO Forum Foundation (CIOFF) representatives at the NICT2025 Summit. [From L to R:] National Epidemiology  Center, Philippines Director Eric Tayag, CIOFF Chairman George Kintanar, EC Segment Marketing Manager Gian Barcarse, DICT Assistant Secretary  and CIOFF President Philip Varilla and CIOFF Chair, Committee on Ways and Means Minerva Mesina.

Eastern Communications Segment Marketing Manager Gian Barcarse presents strategies behind Innovative E-Government Services

                   

Photo of Eastern Communications Segment Marketing Manager Daniella Banzon highlighting the company’s innovative solutions at Cebu Business  Month’s (CBM) 2025 Technology and Innovation Forum 

Sophos Senior Sales Engineer Linette Mananghaya highlights the benefits of Sophos solutions during  

the Access Eastern run in Clark, Pampanga.

Snapshot from the third season of Eastern Communications’ “Thoughts on Tech” video podcast series featuring host Danie Laurel and guest Marla De Castro Rausch, president of Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP)