ILOILO CITY, June 22 -- This highly urbanized city launched on Monday its "Eco-nnect Bottle to WiFi Vendo" project that will provide free internet connectivity in exchange for polyethylene therephthalate (PET) plastic bottles.

"We encourage that instead of throwing them away, they can exchange them for free WiFi," said Mayor Raisa Trenas, who led the launch of the prototype after the flag-raising ceremony.

She said the city government will continue to innovate and use other incentives for animals, like free dog food.

"This is just a prototype. Once it becomes successful, we will launch in other areas," she said.

The machine was developed by the Data Assessment and System Management Office and fabricated by the City General Services O...