Globe activates Davao cell sites using 700 MHz band

Globe Telecom Inc. extended the coverage of the 700 megahertz (MHz) spectrum by firing up cell sites in Davao, as part of efforts to improve mobile Internet service, the company said Wednesday.

The move in Davao is part of plans to activate an initial batch of 200 cell sites using the 700 MHz band in the next few months. http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/570901/money/companies/globe-to-fire-up-200-cell-sites-using-700-mhz-band, Globe

“As we continue to activate more sites in various parts of the country, we encourage customers to use LTE 700 MHz capable smartphone devices to really feel the difference in mobile internet speeds," said Joel Agustin, Globe SVP for Program Governance, Network Technical Group.

"As a result of additional capacity and greater coverage that spectrum provides, more customers will soon be able to experience better mobile internet services,” Agustin added.

According to Globe, speed test results revealed that with the LTE Advanced technology, using the 700 MHz and 1800 MHz bands generate speeds of up to 160 Mbps.

LTE or Long Term Evolution is wireless technology that supports roaming Internet access through cell phones and other handheld devices.

“We want first world Internet services. To have it we must make our internet infrastructure also at par with other countries. The additional capacity provided by more spectrum use may be short-lived with today’s data-hungry customers and changing digital lifestyle of consumers,” Agustin noted.

Last month, Globe and PLDT Inc. each acquired 50-percent stake in San Miguel Corp.'s telecommunication unit Vega Telecom Inc. – Ted Cordero/VDS, GMA News