Globe Telecom Inc. is intensifying efforts to expand its network in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) as part of its commitment to bridge the digital divide in the Philippines.
The Ayala-led telco now covers 96.13 percent of the population—equivalent to over 106 million Filipinos—based on 2020 census data. However, around 4.2 million people in remote and infrastructure-challenged locations remain without access to mobile connectivity.
“There is still much work to be done to bring quality connectivity to every Filipino,” said Joel Agustin, SVP for network planning and engineering. “Globe remains fully committed to making it happen.”
In 2024, Globe invested ₱56.2 billion in capital expenditures, focusing on strengthening its mobile network. This included over 1,200 new cell sites, 4,600 LTE upgrades, and nearly 600 new 5G sites—pushing near-universal coverage in Metro Manila and about 97 percent coverage in major Visayas and Mindanao cities.
Globe is now concentrating expansion efforts on underserved areas with limited or no access to connectivity. The company emphasizes that even small gains in coverage can unlock critical services like education, healthcare, and livelihood for remote communities.
To address challenges in powering infrastructure in off-grid areas, Globe employs solar-powered cell sites and collaborates with local governments to accelerate deployment.
Globe also continues to prioritize network reliability. For three consecutive years, it has been recognized as the Philippines’ most reliable mobile network.
“We remain targeted and strategic in our network builds, focused on enabling and uplifting the lives of more Filipinos,” Agustin said.
