Globe, PLDT 'support' call for faster internet after Duterte warning

The country's biggest telecommunications companies have pledged to "support" calls for faster internet services following a pronouncement by incoming president Rodrigo Duterte telling them to improve their services.

Globe Telecom and Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company released separate statements in reaction to Duterte, who warned that he will allow foreign players into the market if the two incumbent telcos do not improve their services.

"We support the call for faster internet. In fact, Globe is at the forefront of building the much needed infrastructure nationwide to make Internet services easily accessible either through mobile or wireline. This is supported by heavy investments over the years to make sure the Philippines is at par with other countries in terms of technology use," said Yoly Crisanto, Globe's Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications.

"We are aligned with government efforts to improve telecom services. PLDT is in fact in the middle of a major 3-year network  investment program that is in process of  significantly improving telecom and Internet services for PLDT and Smart customers and will  support national development initiatives," said Ramon Isberto, PLDT spokesman.

According to various metrics, the Philippines currently has among the slowest and most expensive internet connections in the world.

Crisanto, meanwhile, said that government "also plays a role in improving Internet services."

"This includes promoting IP peering and more importantly address the issues on permitting, right of way and site acquisition so that infrastructure builds can happen faster and at less cost," she said.

Globe also said it welcomes the entry of new players in the market.

"In terms of competition, Globe has long been a challenger brand having a long history of competing with a larger and more dominant market player. We welcome competition in a level playing field and under an environment that is supportive of business," she said.--JST, GMA News