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The request to ETECSA to reduce or temporarily suspend its internet rates during the emergency caused by Hurricane Melissa went viral on social media this Friday, after several journalists and users complained that high prices, constant power outages, and connection failures prevent Cubans from staying informed about the evolution of the dangerous tropical system.
The Cuban journalist Mario J. Pentón, from Miami, posted a message on Facebook that quickly garnered thousands of reactions and shares: “The regime should lower ETECSA's rates so that the people can stay informed about Melissa”, he wrote, reflecting a concern shared by thousands of Cubans both inside and outside the island.
His message was supported by the Santiago communicator Cuscó Tarradell, who also criticized the state company's lack of sensitivity regarding the threat of a meteorological phenomenon that could hit the country as a high-intensity hurricane by mid-next week.
“Why doesn’t ETECSA implement a special promotion for the purchase of mobile data in CUP right now, allowing Cubans to stay informed when the limitations of the electrical service affect so many communities?”, questioned Tarradell in his post, which was widely shared by users, colleagues, and government officials on social media.
The journalist added that, amidst power outages and limited access to official information, social media has become the primary citizen tool for prevention and security. “In this internet age, characterized by blackouts and the rush in our archipelago, no one walks around with a television in hand or with the radio on all the time. Social media, when fed by reliable sources, is an essential tool for preserving life and reducing vulnerabilities to weather phenomena,” he emphasized.
A growing demand within the island
Thousands of users joined the petition, recalling that, following the recent “tariff hike” imposed by ETECSA on mobile data services, many families cannot afford internet packages, especially amid an economic and energy crisis that keeps much of the country in darkness for hours.
" If the State cannot guarantee electricity, at least it should allow people to have information. It is a matter of security and humanity," commented an internet user from Guantánamo. Other users reported the connection issues that persist even in areas with 4G coverage, and requested that the company reinstate free national browsing bonuses or unrestricted access to weather sites as an emergency measure.
Silence of ETECSA in response to the complaints
Until now, ETECSA has not issued any official statements regarding citizen requests nor has it announced any promotions or temporary discounts, despite the fact that Melissa could become a hurricane in the coming hours and directly affect the eastern part of Cuba.
The complaint adds to a long list of grievances against the state monopoly regarding the high cost of telecommunications services and the lack of emergency policies during critical situations, such as hurricanes, blackouts, or national power outages.
Meanwhile, Cubans are trying to stay informed through any possible means, aware that, as Tarradell reminded us, “timely information can also save lives”.
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