Government looks to make texting cheaper

Manila: Officials are looking at ways of cutting costs of text messaging and internet services in a move expected to benefit some 50 million people, most of them overseas workers.

"Discussions are under way with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and telecommunication firms. We all want the rate cut to be permanent," said former senator Ralph Recto, the newly appointed head of the National Economic and Development Authority.

President Gloria Arroyo had announced during her annual national address that a 50-per cent cut in the cost of text messaging was being considered.

Deputy presidential spokesman Lorelei Fajardo later clarified the reduced charges would only be applicable for three months, with local telecom firms offering promotional rates.

According to the NTC, some 50 million mobile subscribers in the country account for a daily average of 1.39 billion text messages.

Transport Secretary Leandro Mendoza for his part has called for text messages to be made free.

The local telecom industry has witnessed unprecedented growth over the last decade and text messaging services have been extremely well received.

Mendoza urged telecom firms to give back to society with improved services.

"Carriers should only charge for voice calls because... they only pay for voice services. Text messaging is not really considered a service and should be free" he said.

Mendoza said the government was committed to lowering costs of communication amid concerns that the country has one of the highest telecom slab rates in the region.