At a time when seamless connectivity has become a basic necessity, it is an imperative to recognize and combat an unseen threat: signal pollution. This is caused by the unauthorized use of signal boosters, which weakens mobile signal in surrounding areas, resulting in dropped calls, choppy or garbled audio, robotic voices, and, in many cases, a complete loss of connectivity.
Despite extensive efforts to enhance network coverage across the country, the illicit use of signal repeaters has emerged as a significant impediment. These unauthorized devices, often sold under the radar, wreak havoc on mobile signal, compromising the digital communication network. While it is somehow understandable that mobile users in densely populated areas resort to signal boosters, these devices are not the solution.
The detrimental effects of illegally used signal boosters cannot be overstated. Other than network issues experienced by mobile users, signal pollution undermines the reliability and quality of mobile communications, affecting everyone within the vicinity of these rogue devices. It is a silent but pervasive threat that demands urgent attention and action.
To understand the gravity of the matter, consider the everyday scenario of making an important call. Whether it’s a business conversation, a call to a loved one, or a distress call to emergency services, the expectation is clear: a stable and reliable connection. However, the presence of unauthorized signal boosters can turn this expectation into a frustrating ordeal.
Dropped calls and poor signal quality can lead to miscommunication, missed opportunities, and, in critical situations, endanger lives. The appeal to resist the illegal use of signal repeaters is not just about adherence to regulations; it’s about preserving the network experience for everyone. The use of unauthorized boosters does not solve connectivity issues but exacerbates them for the entire community. It sets aside the collective need for dependable communication as it causes service disruption, robbing people of the life-enabling benefits of connectivity.
May it not be forgotten that using unauthorized signal boosters is illegal. The sale, purchase, importation, possession, or use of portable cellular mobile repeaters and cell site equipment is explicitly banned under regulations such as the National Telecommunications Commission’s (NTC) Memorandum Order No. 01-02-2013.
These regulations, grounded in public telecommunications policy, reserve the use of such equipment exclusively for licensed mobile network operators and government agencies performing functions vital to national security or safety. The rationale behind this stringent regulation is clear: to maintain the integrity and reliability of the national telecommunications network.
Adherence to these regulations is not merely a legal obligation but a civic duty. It is a commitment to ensuring fair signal distribution and supporting the broader goal of digital inclusivity. As users of the network, we all share the responsibility of maintaining a clean and efficient signal environment. This means resisting the temptation to use unauthorized signal boosters and instead exploring legal and safe alternatives to address connectivity issues.
One such alternative is Voice Over WiFi (VoWiFi), technology that allows mobile phone users to tap into WiFi connections for placing voice calls. This service, which incurs no additional charges, provides a practical solution for those facing challenges in placing calls or sending SMS. By utilizing VoWiFi, users can enhance their connectivity without contributing to signal pollution. Activating this feature is straightforward and can be done through the phone’s connectivity settings, provided that the device supports WiFi calling.
The fight against signal pollution requires a collective effort. It calls for increased awareness about the harmful effects of unauthorized signal boosters and a commitment to using technology responsibly. By doing so, we can preserve the quality of our mobile networks, ensuring that everyone can enjoy reliable and uninterrupted connectivity.
New Baguio museum explores history of Philippine Presidents
At the The Mansion, one of Baguio City’s most-visited landmarks—a new Presidential Museum that focuses on its vibrant and diverse history. This Museum in The Mansion is a expected to draw visitors from Filipino families, students and youth in the nation’s north. The Mansion is located along Romulo Drive in Baguio City, just across Wright Park.
In a sneak peek on the website museums.gov.ph, the Malacañang Heritage Museum created seven galleries highlighting accomplishments from the country’s past presidents up to the current President, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Aside from galleries, Malacañang
Heritage Museum announced that Presidential artifacts and historical timelines, will be available in a souvenir shop for local and foreign tourists.
In a recent announcement, the First Lady was “thrilled” to announce that the coming opening of the museum and encourage the young generation of Filipinos to love their country. “This beautiful space will be open to the public very soon and I can’t wait for everyone to see it,” First Lady Marcos said in a post on Instagram. “If you want to take a peek, visit our website: museums.gov.ph. A heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in bringing this project to life,” she said.
Constructed in 1908, The Mansion boasts a rich history and grand architecture. Initially serving as summer residence for American governors-general before World War II, it was handed over during the Commonwealth period. Currently, it is the official summer residence of the President.
Like the successful Teus Museum in Malacañang, the Presidential Museum in Baguio will have a vast collection of priceless memorabilia, including presidential attire, footwear, flags and busts sculpted in the likeness of the former leaders.
Personally, I am positive that this new Malacanang museum is a great boon to our challenged youth of today. I am also reminded of the famous American writer Lois Lowry who said, “ A museum reminds us of how we came, and why : to start fresh, and begin a new place from what we had learned and carried from the old.”