Improving Connectivity: CCC Bootcamp Held in the Philippines

The first Internet Society Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Bootcamp in the Asia-Pacific region has concluded in the Republic of the Philippines. People from social enterprises and community networks from across the region came together to learn the essentials of network deployment, financial sustainability, and how connectivity can help strengthen local businesses.

Hosting the bootcamp in the Philippines was especially meaningful. On 24 August 2025, a new regulation was passed, streamlining the process for acquiring a license to operate a network. Prior to this, under-connected communities had to seek approval from Congress to operate networks, making it nearly impossible for them to establish their own networks.

The passing of the new regulation is a result of sustained advocacy by the local community, led by the Internet Society Philippines Chapter, attended congressional hearings and legislative consultations and submitted comments to Congress.

The chapter participated in the bootcamp co-organized by the Internet Society, APC, Rhizomatica, the Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia, and the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement.

Benjz Sevilla, Philippines manager at unconnected.org and current board member of the Internet Society Philippines Chapter, shared some of his experience, knowledge, and best practices for community-centered networks with the other participants.

Thinking of deploying your own community network? Take a look at our moderated training course, Building Wireless Community Networks. All Internet Society training courses are free, and open to everyone.