The Philippine Cable and Telecommunications Association Inc. (PCTA) successfully launched its annual event, the 2023 PCTA CONVENTION, which was held for five days from April 10 to 14, 2023, at the SaVoy Hotel Newcoast in Boracay. This was the first face-to-face convention in three years very well attended by speakers and exhibitors from all over the world, and delegates from all over the country. Counterparts from Southeast Asian nations also graced the occasion.
The convention's theme, PIXI: Avatar to Connectivity, revolved around the PCTA Internet Exchange (PCTA IX or PIXI). The discussions focused on the capability of Cable TV operators all over the country to become Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and connect to PIXI’s Data Center improving user experience. Since majority of PCTA members have cable infrastructure capable to be ISPs in remote parts of the country, they can help our government bring Internet service to far-flung communities and schools never before reached by regular telcos.
On the first day, technical seminars about cybersecurity and IPv6 were conducted by Engr. Nathanael Alcain (USAID BEACON Activity, Cybersecurity Skills Specialist) and Ms. Shane Hermoso (Training Delivery Manager for South East and East Asia), respectively, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the delegates.
But it’s not “all work and no play at the convention.” To build a better sense of camaraderie among everyone, PCTA members and convention sponsors enjoyed a friendly yet competitive game of golf and other outdoor activities. By the time the convention proper started, everyone was relaxed and quite excited to network and exchange ideas with peers that will contribute and improve the cable and internet landscape of the Philippines.
The event boasted an outstanding guest lineup gracing the opening ceremony which includes, Hon. Jon Paulo V. Salvahan (NTC Deputy Commissioner), Hon. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue (DICT Undersecretary for Informations and Communications Technology) and Ms. Jennifer Seares (MTRCB Board Member) with Hon. Sara Zimmerman Duterte, Vice President, Republic of the Philippines, delivering the keynote speech. To officially open the PCTA Convention 2023 was Mr. Wesley Selda, PCTA Convention Committee Chairman.
Speaker sessions and product presentations covered some of the most relevant subjects in the industry ranging from new and interesting cable TV programs to cybersecurity, to better internet connection. A very interesting segment in the convention was the Regulatory Hour, an open forum with representatives from DICT, NTC and MTRCB discussing ideas, critical issues, and resolutions affecting the cable TV industry. And not to be missed was the formal collaboration of PCTA with USAid on cybersecurity, and with IECEP (Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines) on continuous learning. Furthermore, in partnership with the Cybersecurity Bureau (CSB) of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2028 Multi-Stakeholder’s Consultation for Visayas was held, presenting to the public for the first time, the overview of NCSP 2028, the country’s national roadmap for cyber resiliency.
Undoubtedly, the most awaited and well-attended event was the Fellowship Night held at the strip of powder white sand of Boracay Newcoast’s private beach. The huge stage was surrounded by food stalls offering the best BBQs and popular street food, while dance music livened up the party. Surprise gifts and numerous raffle prizes were given away much to the delight of the delegates. Of course, can’t be missed were celebrity talents serenading the crowd. By the end of the evening, with over flowing booze, lots of food and lively music, everyone was dancing their way to fun and oblivion!
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The PCTA 2023 Convention: Avatar to Connectivity was Co-Presented by PCTA Internet Exchange Inc. (PIXI) and sponsored by Globe Business, Channel News Asia (CNA), Total Information Management (TIM), Creative Programs Inc. (CPI), NET25, and PLDT Enterprise. Exhibitors showcased their products and services, including Wireless Link technologies, Inc., TAP Digital Media Ventures Corp., China Mobile, Clusterasia Corp., Huawei, Ricklee Enterprises, Samsung, Cignal, Digital Edge, ZCorum, Viva Communications, Inc., Infinivan, Solar Entertainment Corp, CYO, MLhuillier, ACCION, Eastern Communications, YFC-Boneagle International, Inc, HGC, Telstra, Cableboss, Radius, Converge Business, INC TV, RISE and many more. PCTA is grateful to its Co-Presentor, Sponsors, Exhibitors, Delegates and Participants coming from all over the country. The event's success was possible because of your support. PCTA looks forward to the next event and welcomes everyone to join us again |