[OLPC Networking] Philippines Non-denominational Missionary With Questions

[Chip Nuttall]

I am a Physician Assistant living in the Philippines. I am on a remote 
and small island. I am on a dual long term missionary project; 
establishing medical care for the people of the island and teaching the 
school children computer technology so that they can take online college 
classes and have an opportunity to obtain a college degree that would 
otherwise be denied them. Originally I was told I could obtain a 
broadband connection through the SMART cellular company's cell system. 
But after arriving I found this not to be true. Since my funds a very 
limited I have researched possible alternatives. It appears the the 
cheapest would be a Wi-Fi setup. The nearest town on the next island is 
Merida, Leyte (about 4 to 5 miles away) I'm still checking to see for 
sure if there is broadband there. The next town is Ormoc, Leyte which I 
know for sure has broadband (about 15 miles away). There is line of 
sight from Pilar to both Merida and Ormoc. I am enclosing a link to an 
article discussing a project between UC Berkley an Intel stating that 
they created a Wi-Fi link over a distance of 60 miles( 
http://news.zdnet.com/2100-1035_22-6170713.html ).

The reason I am writing you is not to ask for a free system but, to ask 
someone far more knowledgeable than I am for some guidance (reference 
links etc) concerning my situation. I have investigated a satellite 
connection too because of my limited knowledge  of satellite internet 
connections in the rural US (Hughes). But for some reason it is 
extremely more expensive here in the Philippines.

Any assistance you could provide would be greatly appreciated!

Warmest Regards,
F. Bryce "Chip" Nuttall, PA-C
pilarchip1 at mac.com

Ponson island, Camotes Islands, Cebu Province, Philippines 6004