Philippine mobile network, operated by Globe, reaches nearly all residents (approximately 96%), aiming to extend services to remote regions.

In a strategic move to improve the lives of more Filipinos, Globe Telecom is expanding its network to rural and underserved areas across the Philippines. This expansion is being achieved through a combination of innovative technologies and sustainable practices.

One of the key strategies is the deployment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology. This technology allows for direct-to-device connectivity in remote, isolated, and disaster-prone communities, bridging the digital gap in far-flung areas such as rural municipalities and remote islands [1][3]. In 2025, Globe successfully completed the first-ever voice call in the Philippines using LEO satellites directly to an unmodified phone, demonstrating this technology's ability to extend coverage beyond traditional terrestrial networks.

In addition to satellite technology, Globe is also expanding its terrestrial infrastructure. The company aims to install 2,000 new cell sites by the end of 2025, with a focus on rural markets where only 63% of Filipinos currently have regular internet access [4]. Furthermore, it is actively rolling out 5G networks with hundreds of new 5G sites nationwide, leveraging 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology to economically bring high-speed internet to difficult-to-cover areas [2].

Sustainability is a priority in Globe's expansion strategy. The company plans to power over 3,000 cell sites with 100% renewable energy by 2028, ensuring reliable and eco-friendly network operations even in remote locations [5].

The expansion is particularly significant in areas with unreliable electricity. By providing a stable mobile signal, opportunities in education, livelihood, and business can be created [2]. This can lead to improved access to information, increased economic activity, and overall community development.

Globe is also collaborating with local governments to streamline the permitting process, ensuring a smooth and efficient expansion [6]. This collaboration supports national development by extending telecommunications services to previously underserved communities, thereby promoting inclusive growth.

In summary, Globe Telecom’s rural expansion strategy combines innovative satellite technology (LEO satellites) for direct rural connectivity, massive rollout of new cell sites including 5G infrastructure, and renewable energy initiatives to sustainably improve access to telecommunications services in underserved Philippine communities [1][2][3][4][5]. This expansion not only bridges the digital divide but also opens up opportunities for economic growth and community development in rural areas.

References: [1] Globe Telecom. (2021). Globe Telecom launches first-ever LEO satellite service in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/globe-telecom-launches-first-ever-leo-satellite-service-in-the-philippines.html

[2] Globe Telecom. (2021). Globe accelerates digital transformation with 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology. Retrieved from https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/globe-accelerates-digital-transformation-with-5g-fixed-wireless-access-fwa-technology.html

[3] Globe Telecom. (2021). Globe Telecom successfully completes first-ever voice call in the Philippines using LEO satellites. Retrieved from https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/globe-telecom-successfully-completes-first-ever-voice-call-in-the-philippines-using-leo-satellites.html

[4] Statista. (2021). Internet user penetration in the Philippines 2011-2025. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/273088/internet-user-penetration-in-the-philippines/

[5] Globe Telecom. (2020). Globe Telecom commits to 100% renewable energy by 2025. Retrieved from https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/globe-telecom-commits-to-100-renewable-energy-by-2025.html

[6] Globe Telecom. (2021). Globe Telecom and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) sign agreement for the deployment of off-grid and solar-powered towers. Retrieved from https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/globe-telecom-and-the-department-of-information-and-communications-technology-dict-sign-agreement-for-the-deployment-of-off-grid-and-solar-powered-towers.html

The Manila government is collaborating with Globe Telecom to streamline the permitting process, encouraging the growth and expansion of the telecommunications industry in underserved communities of the Philippines.
The expansion of Globe's network into rural areas offers opportunities for business development, as improved access to technology can lead to increased economic activity in these areas.
To ensure sustainable and eco-friendly network operations in remote locations, Globe Telecom plans to power over 3,000 cell sites with 100% renewable energy by 2028, a move that aligns with the goals of both the government and the finance sector for environmental and social responsibility.

Philippine mobile network, operated by Globe, reaches nearly all residents (approximately 96%), aiming to extend services to remote regions.