Speaking at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-led PH Telecom Summit 2026 held on Feb. 5, Globe president and CEO Carl Cruz stressed that connectivity must be treated as the country’s fifth utility—at par with water, electricity, sanitation, and transport—given its central role in everyday life.
Policy shift needed
“Filipinos deserve more than access, they deserve quality,” a company statement quoted Cruz as saying.
“That means policy must shift to enable inclusive, long-term strategic investments supporting the country’s digital connectivity roadmap. Connectivity shouldn’t be a luxury. It’s the backbone of how people work, learn, and live today.”
Cruz emphasized that the telecommunications industry relies heavily on sustained investments and capital expenditures to deliver consistent and dependable services nationwide.
He noted that without clear safeguards and enabling policies, these investments may fall short of translating into tangible benefits for consumers.
Investment protection urged
“To move forward, government and industry must collaborate so that investments are protected and the industry gains translate to real benefit to customers in terms of universal access, reliable and consistent service that’s affordable to many,” he added.
Beyond regulatory reforms, Globe highlighted ongoing efforts to expand digital inclusion by transforming neighborhood microenterprises—such as sari-sari stores, auto repair shops, and small logistics providers—into digital touchpoints within their communities.
Digital inclusion drive
Through a structured national distribution network composed of SME partners, sub-dealers, and community-level agents, Globe is embedding small businesses into its supply chain.
This approach enables these enterprises to offer basic connectivity and digital services, helping bridge access gaps while generating additional livelihood opportunities.
The company said this scalable model strengthens both digital adoption and local economic resilience, particularly in areas where formal infrastructure and access remain limited.
On the Konektadong Pinoy Act, Globe expressed measured support, citing improvements in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that address earlier concerns on security, infrastructure protection, and fair competition.
Balanced regulatory framework
The law removes the congressional franchise requirement for data transmission providers, opening the market to new entrants classified as Data Transmission Industry Participants (DTIPs).
Globe said it worked closely with the DICT to ensure strict cybersecurity vetting and certification standards for new players, with safeguards against exploitation during the two-year grace period.
The company also advocated rules that prevent unnecessary infrastructure duplication or disruption, and called for fair and transparent spectrum allocation, especially as satellite providers expand their presence.
“We need rules that balance openness with accountability, especially around infra use, security standards, and spectrum coordination,” Cruz said.
At the summit, DICT chief Henry Aguda underscored the government’s National Digital Connectivity Plan (NDCP), highlighting efforts to improve network performance and expand infrastructure to close the digital divide. His address, delivered with the support and presence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., reinforced digital inclusion as a national priority.
National Telecommunications Commission Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez likewise called for sustained collaboration among regulators, government, and industry stakeholders to ensure equitable and quality connectivity across the country. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
