Globe Telecom Inc. is set to accelerate its expansion of mobile cell towers in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) this year, in a bid to meet the growing demand for broadband connectivity.
Globe said that its mobile network currently serves over a million Filipinos, offering calls, internet, and day-to-day communication. Despite the progress, around 4.2 million people remain outside the coverage area, underscoring the continued need for network expansion.
To bridge this gap, Globe has intensified its infrastructure rollout. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the company added 487 new towers, upgraded nearly 4,000 sites to LTE, and launched 235 additional 5G sites. The telco now supports over 9.5 million 5G-enabled devices across the nation.
A significant portion of this growth is directed at GIDAs, where Globe’s efforts have already established 600 operational sites, with plans to reach 700 by the end of the year. Industry-wide objectives between 2025 and 2028 aim to add more than 1,000 towers in underserved communities.
At present, the Philippines has fewer than 38,000 cell sites—far below the estimated 50,000 needed to adequately serve the nation’s 113 million mobile users. In comparison, countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Myanmar have far higher tower densities. This infrastructure gap continues to impact the quality and reach of mobile and internet services across the archipelago.
Despite these challenges, Globe’s mobile network now covers 96.13 percent of the population, serving over 106 million people. The company invested P56.2 billion in 2024, a substantial portion of which was directed toward network upgrades and expansion.
“Every tower we build brings Filipinos closer to opportunity, better education, stronger businesses, and more connected communities,” said Carl Cruz, Globe’s president and CEO. “Expanding our network is how we ensure the Philippines stays competitive in Asia’s digital future.”
The ongoing investments are crucial as the Philippines works to close the digital divide. However, Globe continues to face obstacles, including lengthy permitting processes, site acquisition difficulties, and local restrictions, which slow down network expansion. The company has called for streamlined processes and greater coordination with local stakeholders to expedite infrastructure deployment.
In the larger context of Asia’s digital race, reliable telecom infrastructure is critical. Globe’s efforts not only aim to enhance mobile connectivity but also support digital education, foster business growth, and strengthen communication across the country.
As the Philippines positions itself for growth in the digital economy, expanding tower density and improving service reliability remain key priorities to ensure the country remains competitive in the region’s fast-evolving digital landscape.
