Computer groups say open source software not a threat

A group of computer manufacturers, distributors and dealers in the country believe the emergence of the open source software technology is not a threat to the industry but is instead considered a source of grassroots ideas.

Expertise in the open source software technology is still very limited, said Wesley Ngo, director of the Computer Manufacturers, Distributors and Dealers Association of the Philippines (Comddap).

Another Comddap director, Salvador Lastrilla, also said open source is still in the infancy stage although its growth potential is very, very big.

Open source has to be encouraged, said Lastrilla, adding that radical ideas will most possibly come from the use of open source software technology.

The industry just has to find a (balance), he said, referring to the use of both the open source software and the branded operating systems, like Windows, in the industry.

Although the best-selling ultra-mobile notebooks already come with free open source software, like Linux, Ngo said open source still lacks the needed technical support to address the problems encountered by companies.

Comddap, which aims to promote the sustainable development of the countrys information technology industry, is also taking steps to make computers more affordable to the masses.

This, considering that the country still ranks low in the personal computer penetration rate compared with other Asian countries.

The group has successfully lobbied for the removal of customs duties for computers and hardware imported by distributors and dealers to bring down their cost.

We are also looking into the removal of the Expanded value-Added Tax, said Ngo, but added that the group understands that the government also needs to earn.

The group is also looking into the possibility of coming up with a financing scheme, with the support of the government, to allow more people to purchase computers.

Lastrilla said many countries, like Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia, are implanting such schemes.

The adoption of a policy similar to south Americas and Chinas one-laptop, one-person policy was also suggested but Comddap said the country is not yet ready for this.

Instead, Comddap suggested that the government allow computer purchases to be credited from the income tax of the buyer since this will also encourage the collection of the sales tax and the issuance of invoices.

Comddap is also bringing to Cebu its ninth exposition of over 500 products in the IT industry on July 3 to 5.

Six exhibitors are Cebu-based companies like CBX Corp., Cebu LMI Technologies and Thinking Tools Inc.

Aside from big discounts, the expo will also feature an auction hour, technology update sessions and projector shootouts.

The first leg of the second Google Earth Amazing Race contest will also start in Metro Cebu and will be participated in by some of Cebus top colleges and universities.

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Computer groups say open source software not a threat