Globe, MMDA in deal to speed up cell sites

Globe Telecom Inc. has forged an agreement with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to speed up the deployment of over 120 cell sites along the major thoroughfares in the metropolis by streamlining the permitting process.

The agreement will allow the company to put up cell sites without going through the “regular circuitous approval process,” which involves an average of 25 permits from local government units. Securing permits takes up about eight months to secure.

The Ayala-led telco will be able to further enhance wireless network coverage and improve customers’ internet experience at a much faster time.

“Securing various permits for the construction of telco infrastructure such as cell sites has long been a major challenge of the industry. We want to thank MMDA for sharing our vision of a connected Philippines by allowing us to deploy sites faster thus improving mobile experience at the heart of Metro Manila,” Globe president and chief executive officer Ernest Cu said.

Globe is set to install small cell antennas along Metro Manila’s major thoroughfares, including EDSA, Roxas Boulevard, C5, and Congressional Avenue.

Aside from enhancing mobile coverage and capacities in MMDA-controlled areas, Globe will also provide logistical support for the critical traffic management operations of MMDA.

“Globe Telecom has been a long time partner of the agency in terms of public service. This agreement is in line with President Duterte’s policy of easing the process of doing business in the Philippines and MMDA’s contribution to improving telecommunications service in Metro Manila,” MMDA chairman Danilo Lim said.

In 2016, MMDA allowed Globe to deploy wireless infrastructure in its flood control facilities located in different areas in Metro Manila, including the Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard and Barangay 190 in Pasay City.

Globe also started providing free WiFi services in all 13 MRT-3 stations along EDSA and 20 LRT-1 stations to address growing customer demand for connectivity in the same year.

It has been aggressively upgrading its wireless infrastructure to improve mobile coverage and enhance network capacities as more and more Filipinos are shifting to smartphone use.

With data traffic continuing to be robust, the company has accelerated its capital expenditures guidance by $100 million this year to further develop its network infrastructure.