Globe urges Philippines to prioritise telecoms in disaster recovery

Details: Manny Pham; Category: Operators; 14 October 2026; 531 views

Philippine operator Globe Telecom has called for telecommunications networks to be prioritised alongside electricity and water during disaster recovery, arguing that connectivity is essential for emergency response and relief efforts.

The operator made the proposal at a GSMA event in New Delhi, where it discussed network resilience during extreme weather and other events that disrupt critical infrastructure.

Globe general counsel Froilan Castelo said connectivity becomes a lifeline during disasters, allowing people to contact emergency services, receive advice and coordinate relief operations.

Castelo said telecoms restoration should take place alongside the recovery of power and other essential utilities, supported by a national framework enabling government agencies and operators to coordinate their response.

He also called for restoration teams to receive priority access to government logistics, military and police support, and for regulatory and administrative barriers to be removed to speed up repairs.

Power outages, impassable roads and difficulties accessing damaged facilities can delay restoration, Castelo said, adding that a national plan could help address these obstacles.

The proposal comes as the Philippines faces recurring natural disasters that threaten its telecommunications infrastructure.