Globe launches major network modernisation as it takes the fight to Smart

Filipino operator Globe Telecom has embarked upon a major network modernisation programme in preparation for the expected rise in voice and data traffic in the country. The Manila Times quotes Globe president and CEO Ernest Cu as saying that the launch of its massive network transformation started this month. In 2011 the group revealed plans to invest USD790 million this year on the modernisation, including USD700 million on the infrastructure itself and USD90 million in its IT transformation initiative. Once the works are completed, Cu expects to see a marked improvement in voice call quality, SMS delivery times and increases in transmission speeds, coverage and network reliability. The official confirmed that Globe plans to convert all of its cell sites to support Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology. As at end-September 2011, Globe had a total of 12,062 base stations and 6,580 cell sites to support its 2G, 3G and WiMAX services.