As new satellite providers explore opportunities in the country and around the world, discussions have intensified over whether emerging technologies could eventually supplant existing telecommunications infrastructure.
Globe, however, believes the focus should remain on ensuring reliable and inclusive digital access regardless of the technology being used.
Bigger goal
The company said technology-neutral policies are essential to fostering innovation while ensuring all connectivity providers adhere to high standards for reliability, security, consumer protection, and fair competition.
Achieving universal connectivity, Globe said, will require cooperation among industry players, regulators, technology providers, and policymakers to ensure that every Filipino can access secure and dependable digital services.
"No single technology can connect a nation," Globe Telecom president and chief executive officer Carl Cruz said in a statement.
"The challenge is not deciding which technology wins. The challenge is ensuring every Filipino has access to reliable connectivity wherever they are. Mobile networks, fiber infrastructure, submarine cables, and satellite technologies each have a role to play in building a more connected, resilient, and inclusive Philippines."
Essential infrastructure
Connectivity has become increasingly critical as digital services become embedded in daily life. Education, healthcare, financial services, government transactions, and emergency response now depend heavily on reliable internet access, making connectivity as vital as other basic utilities.
For decades, mobile networks, fiber infrastructure, and submarine cables have served as the backbone of the country's digital ecosystem, providing the capacity and resilience needed to support millions of users, businesses, and communities.
At the same time, satellite technology is creating opportunities to connect areas where traditional network deployment remains difficult. Remote islands, geographically isolated communities, transportation corridors, and disaster-stricken locations stand to benefit from satellite-enabled services.
Working together
Rather than viewing satellite and terrestrial networks as competing technologies, Globe sees them as complementary components of a broader connectivity ecosystem.
This strategy is reflected in the company's efforts to build a multi-network platform that integrates mobile, fiber, wireless, submarine cable, and satellite technologies.
Globe has also partnered with Starlink to explore satellite-to-mobile capabilities that could extend connectivity beyond traditional cellular coverage and provide additional resilience during emergencies.
The company has already begun integrating satellite services into its network operations. Recently, Globe deployed satellite-based connectivity solutions during emergency response efforts in Mindanao, helping maintain communications while network restoration activities were underway.
For a geographically complex country like the Philippines, Globe said combining multiple technologies presents an opportunity to close coverage gaps, strengthen network resilience, and expand digital opportunities for underserved communities.
Looking ahead, the company maintains that the future of connectivity is not a choice between satellite and mobile networks but the development of a seamless ecosystem where technologies work together to keep Filipinos connected in an increasingly digital world. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
