Globe expands network to over 500 remote areas in PHL

Globe continues its efforts to bridge the digital divide, successfully extending its network to more than 500 Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) across the Philippines.

Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO, said the initiative aims to provide remote communities with access to essential online services, educational resources, and economic opportunities.

“At the heart of our mission is connecting the unconnected to build an inclusive, sustainable, and digitally-enabled nation. By dismantling barriers and unlocking opportunities, we are driving economic and social progress for all,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO.

Globe’s expansion into GIDAs aligns with its goal of promoting inclusive connectivity, which is increasingly critical as digital access becomes essential for daily life.

Over the past three years, Globe has invested Php 265 billion in capital expenditure and Php 236 billion in operational expenses to enhance its network infrastructure.

In addition to expanding its network, Globe is actively collaborating with the government to improve the country’s connectivity infrastructure.

The recently established Connectivity Plan Task Force (CPTF), led by Cu, works alongside the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to deploy internet infrastructure in GIDAs and advocate for essential telco infrastructure policies.

The CPTF operates under the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), which President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. established to foster public-private sector collaboration.

“Bringing connectivity to the entire Philippines, including remote areas, requires collaboration between the private sector and the government. Through this Task Force, we hope to synergize our efforts so that every corner of the country is connected, and Filipinos are able to enjoy the benefits of digital connectivity in an equitable way,” Cu explained.

PSAC has urged the government to allocate at least Php 240 billion to improve internet infrastructure, highlighting the need for a commercial partnership to build 35,000 new cell sites.

Additionally, the Council has requested an annual budget of Php 60 billion for the DICT to lease towers, build last-mile facilities, and optimize existing telco infrastructure.

The funding aims to provide internet access to 125,000 public facilities, including schools, hospitals, and health centers, over the next four years.

The Council also emphasized the importance of implementing Executive Order No. 32, which streamlines the permitting process for ICT infrastructure.

Cu called on local government units to support connectivity enhancements by reducing bureaucratic barriers that delay construction.

“We are very grateful that the President issued Executive Order No. 32 in July last year to streamline the permitting process for ICT infrastructure. But nearly a year since, we still experience barriers on the ground. We hope that LGUs will honor the President’s order to the letter and enable, instead of hinder, the enhancement and expansion of connectivity across the country,” Cu added.