Globe, Smart suspend mobile services in Cebu, Kalibo

Telcos Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. are suspending mobile services this weekend in Cebu and Aklan where big festivals are being held.

“In compliance with a directive from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), Globe Telecom will temporarily suspend mobile services within the immediate vicinity of the Sinulog festival in Cebu City and Ati-atihan in Kalibo, Aklan,” Globe general counsel Froilan Castelo said yesterday.

In Cebu City, the suspension started to be implemented at noon until 7 p.m. yesterday for the solemn procession.

Mobile services would again be suspended in Cebu City today from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the Sinulog grand parade.

As for Kalibo, the suspension will cover Pastrana Park in Poblacion, Aklan from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. today.

“With the directive, Globe customers along the parade route may not be able to access call, text and mobile data services while the suspension of services is in effect,” Castelo said.

Smart is also suspending mobile services for the Sinulog event in Cebu.

“We are [suspending services] upon orders of the NTC and at the request of the PNP (Philippine National Police),” said Smart public affairs head Ramon Isberto.

“We will restore our mobile phone services once we receive the go-signal from authorities,” he added.