Top 85!

IN the recent Global Informtation Technology Report 2009-2010, World Economic Forum's measure of readiness of IT infrastructure in 133 countries all over the world, the Philippines ranked 85th! And who is to blame?

Personally, I blame this entirely on the government - for failing to institute policies that will enable IT for development in the country. The infrastructure, as provided by commercial companies, need regulation that are friendly to businesses, government agencies and consumers. However, government regulatory agencies, such as the NTC, and government policy-making agency, such as the CICT, both fail in doing its job.

The NTC has always been friendly to the industry players, rather than to its citizens. This agency needs to be abolished right away. Where else can you find a government agency that bows down to corporations, e.g., telecommunications companies?]

The CICT, otoh, has no teeth! I can only formulate policies and make recommendations. It needs to be dissolved, and in its place a full department needs to be established. NTC's functions need to be integrated into this department. We need the department headed by someone who is NOT afraid of the industry players -- one who is pro-consumer! WE need one who can ensure that the country continues to move forward and be stuck at 85th place! S/He should make sure that consumers are PROTECTED from these abusive telcos!

The question is - what will happen after May 10? What are the plans of each candidate? It is best to know early on - so we know if we will remain in the dark ages or progress.

Image courtesy of Orin Zebest.