At the GSMA Digital Nation Summit Manila, Globe underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector in addressing the Philippines’ digital needs.
Emmanuel Estrada, VP for Regulatory Development and Sstrategy at Globe, highlighted how public-private partnerships (PPPs) are key to improving connectivity and leveraging technology.
“The old, antiquated policies are no longer effective and relevant in today’s digital economy. Once that is addressed, let’s streamline all the processes,” Estrada said.
He referred to Executive Order No. 32, which streamlined permits for telecom infrastructure, which Globe said, allowed it to achieve a 20% improvement in processing times between 2022 and 2024.
Estrada emphasized Globe’s involvement in the Connectivity Plan Task Force (CPTF), which includes government stakeholders, telecom operators, and tower companies. The CPTF focuses on optimizing existing networks, building over 150 new sites, and exploring satellite technology to connect remote areas.
Connectivity
While 96% of Filipinos are within reach of 3G or 4G signals, only 63% maintain active subscriptions.
“First, let’s fix connectivity, and once that’s done, let’s improve usability,” Estrada said. “Using connectivity effectively for education, health, and finances is where real value lies.”
He also called for revising outdated policies, some dating back to 1931, to create a stable regulatory environment that encourages private sector investments.
PPPs, Estrada noted, must align technology with real-world applications to benefit individuals and communities.
“Let’s ensure these solutions address the specific needs of the public, so no one is left behind,” he said
Globe sees PPPs as a critical driver for digital transformation, bridging gaps, and empowering Filipinos to harness technology effectively.