Voices on the Internet

Finally, the introduction of VoIP services is gaining momentum in the Philippine market. While the increase in fuel prices and in the prices of commodities continue unabated, the prices of International Direct Distance Dialing (IDD) calls are dropping faster that you can say "Voice over Internet Protocol".

Digitel has started with their $0.20 per minute IDD calls. PLDT has followed suit with its $0.10 per minute VoIP calls for its DSL subscribers. Bayantel will soon offer its $o.06 per minute VoIP IDD calling.

It's going to be a lopsided pricing scheme... Making IDD calls will soon be cheaper than making Domestic Long Distance (NDD) calls. IDD calls will cost only $0.06 or P3.36 per minute while NDD calls will still cost between P4.5o to P6.00 per minute. It's a good thing PLDT has its P10.00 per call (unlimited) to any PLDT landline phone while Globe is offering its no charging between Globe-to-Globe landline phones.

The Filipino consumer has triumphed.