Globe sets 3-year rollout of 5G enabled with laser

Globe Telecom Inc. is accelerating efforts to modernize its cellular infrastructure through the nationwide rollout of wireless laser links.

This involves a technology that transmits data through the atmosphere without the need for traditional fiber cables.

Over the next three years, Globe said it plans to deploy more than 400 wireless laser links with Singapore-based Transcelestial.

The rollout aims to expand wireless connectivity in areas where laying physical fiber-optic cables is difficult. These include coastlines, mountains and disaster-prone locations.

“By utilizing wireless laser links, Globe can now deliver fiber-class capacity for 5G and small cells through a rapid deployment model that bypasses traditional construction delays,” the telco said.

The nationwide deployment expands Globe’s partnership with Transcelestial, which began in August 2025.

Initial deployments were carried out in the Visayas and Mindanao, as well as at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. The technology underwent “high-demand trials” during large-scale events.

Globe earlier said it was also exploring Transcelestial’s longer-distance laser systems capable of transmitting data over distances of up to 15 kilometers. Testing for this capability was initially scheduled for 2026.

“Our 400-link rollout with Globe is a signal that the country is embracing new infrastructure models to overcome old constraints,” said Rohit Jha, CEO and cofounder of Transcelestial.

See Also

Stocks dive, rates surge on Middle East conflict

“Globe’s strategy recognizes that no single technology will define the future of national networks. The move to deploy Transcelestial lasers represents an acceleration of our commitment to bring better access to more Filipinos at speed,” added Joel Agustin, senior vice president at Globe.

Transcelestial is a portfolio company of Kickstart Ventures, Globe’s corporate venture capital arm.

Another Globe-owned company, Asticom, will serve as the local engineering partner for the project.

The rollout adds to Globe’s investments in alternative connectivity infrastructure.