MANILA – Five years after its successful network modernization program that saw mobile data exploding in the Philippines, Globe Telecom embarks on another nationwide infrastructure program that would enhance the country’s Internet experience within homes and across businesses.
Globe announced that the bulk of the $750 million capex this year would be allotted to deploy fiber optic cables in 20,000 barangays all over the country to provide faster and more reliable Internet access in about 2 million homes nationwide. The infrastructure build is expected to take 5 years and will extend network coverage to more areas that currently have no connection or spotty service.
“Data access is currently one of the most important drivers of economic competitiveness and growth. For the Philippines to fully take advantage of new digital opportunities, we need to create an Internet superhighway and provide ultra-fast internet connection that will enable growth in every corner of our country. We want to make use of technological innovations to make Internet service experience at par with other countries in the world,” Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu said. He emphasized that elsewhere in the world, new digital trends such as cloud computing, mobile web services and e-commerce are already radically changing the digital landscape.
In line with its vision of ushering in a digital nation, the network build will also increase the capacity of its network for both mobile and wirelines using different technologies including 3G, LTE and even Wi-Fi. It will likewise replace the old copper wires that have been used for wireline connections in the past.
One of the most important advances in broadband technology, fiber optics offer the fastest way to access data, providing consumers with higher download and uploads speeds, lower latency, faster internet browsing including streaming of high-definition multi-media content, among others.
Cu also said that unlike the company’s previous network modernization program, for the network build to be as pervasive as possible, it will also depend on other stakeholders such as the cooperation of local government units, and homeowner’s associations. “This is not just about the business of connectivity. This is also giving everyone the opportunity to create their own business and experience growth as a result of connectivity. We have come to that point where we could all come together and make use of connectivity to benefit as many Filipinos as possible.”
With its modernized network, Globe has positioned itself as the purveyor of the Filipino digital lifestyle. The company’s mission is to create a wonderful world for people, businesses and the nation.
