If you grew up in the Philippines during the late 90s or early 2000s, chances are you’ve either used or at least heard of Pasonet. This coin-operated internet service was one of the earliest and most affordable ways for Filipinos to get online—and in many ways, it shaped how an entire generation experienced the internet for the first time.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what Pasonet is, how it worked, why it was so popular, and how it continues to influence Filipino internet culture even today. Along the way, we’ll share real stories, explain how it compares to modern internet cafes, and even show you how to set up a Pasonet-style computer rental system if you’re curious or planning a small business.
What is Pasonet?
Pasonet, sometimes stylized as “PisoNet” or “Piso Net”, is a combination of two words: “piso”, the Filipino term for one peso (₱1), and “net”, short for internet. So what is it really? In simple terms, Pasonet is a coin-operated internet access system where you insert coins—usually ₱1—to get a few minutes of access to a computer. It was usually set up in small shops, convenience stores, or even someone’s garage or sari-sari store. Think of it like a vending machine for internet access.
How Did Pasonet Work?
At its core, a Pasonet system involved a PC, a coin slot timer, and some form of internet connection. Here’s how it worked:
Step-by-Step: How Pasonet Worked
- User inserts a ₱1 coin into the timer box.
- The timer activates the PC monitor, keyboard, and mouse, allowing the user to operate the computer.
- The amount of time given usually ranged between 3 to 6 minutes, depending on the configuration.
- After time runs out, the screen locks, and the computer becomes unusable until another coin is inserted.
Over time, more advanced Pasonet timer software emerged that allowed operators to set time limits, control multiple PCs, and even monitor usage remotely.
Why Pasonet Became So Popular
There are several reasons why Pasonet exploded in popularity during the 2000s, especially in urban and semi-urban areas of the Philippines.
1. Affordability
Back in the day, a traditional internet café would charge ₱20 to ₱30 per hour. For many Filipinos, especially students, this was a luxury. But with Pasonet, you could get online for just ₱1, even if only for 5 minutes.
2. Accessibility
Since it didn’t require a full shop setup, Pasonet machines started appearing everywhere—small convenience stores, sari-sari stores, school canteens, and even inside people’s homes.
3. Simplicity
You didn’t need to ask an attendant or log into anything. You just popped in a coin and started browsing. It was fast, easy, and anonymous.
4. Youth Appeal
For teenagers, Pasonet became a digital playground. Many used it to browse Friendster, Multiply, watch videos on YouTube, or play Flash games on websites like Y8.
Pasonet vs. Modern Internet Cafes
While both serve the same purpose—public computer and internet access—there are key differences between Pasonet and traditional internet cafes.
| Feature | Pasonet | Modern Internet Café |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ₱1 for 3–5 minutes | ₱20–₱30 per hour |
| Setup | Minimal (coin box + PC) | Requires full shop setup |
| Staff | Usually unattended | Staff-managed |
| Target Users | Casual, quick users | Gamers, students, professionals |
| Location | Anywhere | Dedicated shop |
Clearly, Pasonet filled a gap in the market—offering affordable, on-the-go internet access to those who couldn’t afford or didn’t need a full hour online.
Anecdotes from the Pasonet Era
To really understand the magic of Pasonet, let’s take a walk down memory lane.
The ₱10 “All-Nighter”
“I remember sneaking out one night with just ₱10 in my pocket,” shares Karl, now a 30-year-old IT professional. “That was enough for almost an hour online. I used it to check my Friendster, download ringtones, and even flirt with my crush on Yahoo Messenger. It felt like freedom.”
First Steps into the Internet
“For me, it was my first time ever touching a computer,” says Liza, a high school teacher. “We didn’t have one at home. I used the Pasonet near our sari-sari store to do my school projects. That’s how I learned how to use Microsoft Word and search on Google.”
These stories highlight how Pasonet wasn’t just a business—it was a gateway to the digital world for many.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Pasonet Business
Believe it or not, Pasonet businesses still exist today in rural areas or places with limited internet options. If you’re thinking of setting one up, here’s a simple guide.
Step 1: Choose a Location
Pick a spot with lots of foot traffic—near schools, boarding houses, or jeepney terminals.
Step 2: Buy the Necessary Equipment
You’ll need:
- 1 or more desktop PCs
- A reliable internet connection
- Pasonet timer boxes or software (e.g., PisoWifi, CoinOp, iTimer)
- Coin slots or vending machine hardware
- Basic furniture (chairs, tables)
Step 3: Install the Timer Software
Software like Pisonet Timer, CoinOp, or PisoWiFi can control PC access based on coin input.
Step 4: Secure Your Setup
Use screen covers, secure coin boxes, and simple rules to prevent tampering.
Step 5: Market Your Business
Put up signage, offer promos (like ₱10 = 1 hour), and maybe even add printing or scanning services to increase income.
Step 6: Maintain Regularly
Keep the machines virus-free, update software, and empty the coin boxes regularly.
The Cultural Impact of Pasonet
It’s easy to dismiss Pasonet as just a coin-operated computer. But for many Filipinos, it was the first step into a much bigger world. It allowed access to:
- Job opportunities
- Education and research
- Social connection through early social media
- Entertainment, from games to music to videos
Moreover, it gave rise to micro-entrepreneurs who didn’t have the capital to build full-scale internet cafés but could start with one or two PCs.
Is There Still a Place for Pasonet Today?
You might think that with everyone using smartphones and mobile data, Pasonet is obsolete. But not entirely.
In some rural areas or low-income neighborhoods, many people still don’t have their own internet or devices. A Pasonet kiosk can offer them affordable access for:
- Applying for government documents
- Online job applications
- Research for school
- Printing and scanning services
And let’s not forget the rise of Piso WiFi—a modern version of Pasonet that provides timed WiFi access instead of desktop PCs. These are often seen near tricycle terminals or sari-sari stores.
Conclusion
Pasonet may seem like a relic of the past, but its impact on Filipino internet culture is undeniable. It democratized access to information, gave young people a taste of the online world, and enabled small-time entrepreneurs to earn a living. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or looking for a new business idea, there’s something uniquely Filipino about the humble Pasonet. It’s not just a coin-operated PC—it’s a piece of history that bridged the gap between the offline and online worlds for millions.
