USTP, NTC launch QoS and EDGE Programs to Strengthen Digital Transformation and Connectivity
By Randulf C. Doria, USTP System STRATCOMM
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Extension (VCRIE) of USTP Cagayan de Oro, collaborated with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to launch the NTC Quality of Service (QoS) and Broadband Mapping System and the NTC EDGE Extension Program on August 26, 2025, at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City. The event aimed to improve digital connectivity, ensure service quality, and expand broadband access across the nation to support inclusive development and technological progress.
Highlights of the Program
Atty. Dionel O. Albina, USTP CDO Chancellor, welcomed participants and highlighted USTP’s commitment to research and extension efforts supporting national telecommunications and information access.
Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, USTP System President, shared how USTP is shaping the country’s digital future through technology leadership, research, innovation, and partnerships.
Engr. Alvin Bernard N. Blanco, NTC Deputy Commissioner, discussed project goals to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure with improved monitoring.
Engr. Alex L. Maureal, USTP CDO Vice Chancellor and Project Leader, explained how the Quality of Service and Broadband Mapping System tracks and improves internet performance nationwide.
At the launch, Atty. Andres D. Castelar Jr., NTC Deputy Commissioner, described the system’s role in collecting data on internet performance and ensuring provider accountability nationwide.
Atty. Ella Blanca B. Lopez, NTC Commissioner, emphasized the importance of data-driven policies for reliable, affordable, and inclusive connectivity.
Atty. Ella Blanca B. Lopez, NTC Commissioner, delivered a keynote address on “Charting the Future: Driving Connectivity and Reform through Strategic Regulation.” She stressed the need for data-driven policies to ensure reliable, affordable, and inclusive connectivity for all Filipinos.
Launch of the NTC-EDGE Extension Program
The program’s second part launched the NTC-EDGE Extension Program at USTP CDO to advance research, policy, and training for regional digital empowerment through academic and NTC partnerships.
Signing of Agreements
To formalize the collaboration, USTP and NTC signed key agreements:
Atty. Ella B. Lopez, NTC Commissioner, and Atty. Dionel O. Albina, Chancellor of USTP Cagayan de Oro, on behalf of University System President Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for NTC x USTP Collaboration.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for NTC-EDGE Implementation was also signed between Atty. Dionel O. Albina and the NTC Regional Directors.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for NTC-EDGE Implementation was also signed between Atty. Dionel O. Albina and the NTC Regional Directors.
This partnership reaffirms USTP’s commitment to leverage science, technology, and innovation for nation-building and to support NTC’s goal of a connected and digitally empowered Philippines. Both institutions work to close the digital gap, provide accurate and useful data, and ensure reliable access to telecommunications services across the country, paving the way for a future where every Filipino can thrive in an inclusive digital society.
