San Miguel's Ang claims PHL to have better mobile network service by 2016

Filipinos are in for better Internet connectivity and wireless communications in general starting next year, according to San Miguel Corp. President and COO Ramon S. Ang.

 

The businessman made his remarks at the Forbes Global CEO Conference on Wednesday, hinting at the launch of San Miguel’s proposed mobile network venture with Australia's Telstra Corp. Ltd.

 

"Mobile broadband should be done by next year. For all of you that experience problem [in the Philippines], I think next year there should be no more problem,” Ang said.

 

San Miguel is in talks with Australia’s biggest phone company about a joint venture that will rival Globe Telecom Inc. and Philippine Long Distance Company in the data, voice and text messaging market.

 

The planned partnership between Telstra and San Miguel will intensify competition in the country’s telecommunications market over the long term, according Fitch Ratings Inc. early this month. 

 

San Miguel is currently engaged in the wireless business through Eastern Telecommunications Philippines Inc., Bell Telecommunications Philippine Inc. and Liberty Telecommunications Holdings Inc.

 

In late July, the diversified conglomerate bought the entire interest and participation of Qtel West Bay Holdings SPC, Wi-Tribe Asia Ltd. and White Dawn Solution Holdings Inc. in Liberty. – VS, GMA News