MANILA, Philippines – Online marketplace Amazon has announced that it is making its popular e-book reader Kindle 2 available in the Philippines, although there’s no word yet on whether it will sell through local telecom service providers.

The device will be officially launched by October 19 and will cost US$259 (approximately P12,000).

The Philippines would be one of the 100 countries where the Kindle 2 would be available for delivery.

Kindle 2 will also feature a built-in third-generation (3G) wireless modem, allowing it to connect to and download Amazon’s e-book titles via cellular technology.

All international customers, including the Philippines, will not be charged for wireless delivery of e-books

In an official statement, Amazon.com Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos said international customers of Kindle 2 will get the same benefits enjoyed by US users, including over 290,000 English-language books.

There is no mention, however, if the mobile telecommunications providers would charge for access, and how much it would cost.

The international version of Kindle 2 would not have blogs and Web browsers available.

It will also come with a 100-240 volt power adapter, as well as a micro-USB cable that allows the Kindle 2 to connect to a PC.

The Kindle appeared in 2007 as a single-purpose e-book reader. Its screen actually uses “electronic ink,” eliminating glare associated with most LCD screens.