Globe Telecom receives green light to deploy small cells in Manila

Philippine operator Globe Telecom has inked an agreement with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to speed up the deployment of more than 120 cell sites in certain districts in Metro Manila. Globe said the deployment of small cells will allow it to enhance wireless network coverage and improve customers’ internet experience. “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,” said Globe Telecom’s President and CEO Ernest Cu. The agreement allows Globe to deploy cell sites without going through the regular approval process, which involves an average of 25 permits from local government units and takes up about eight months. “Globe Telecom has been a long time partner of the agency in terms of public service. This agreement is in line with the government’s policy of easing the process of doing business in the Philippines and MMDA’s contribution to improving telecommunications service in Metro Manila,” said MMDA’s Chairman Danilo Lim. Back in 2016, MMDA allowed Globe to deploy wireless infrastructure in its flood control facilities located in different areas in Manila. Globe also said it has been aggressively upgrading its wireless infrastructure to improve mobile coverage and enhance network capacity. The carrier said it will invest $100 million this year to further develop its network infrastructure.