The Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), a collaborative project by telco companies Globe, and partners Eastern and InfiniVAN Inc., has reached Mactan Island in Cebu to provide better voice and SMS services as well as quicker internet connectivity. Through this, the country’s mobile and broadband access will be improved, and fiber will be installed in previously unserviced locations.
Prior to Mactan, PDSCN had already reached nine other locations: Siargao, Surigao del Norte; Boac, Marinduque; Calatrava, Romblon; Placer, Masbate; Iloilo City; Bacolod City; Roxas City; and Palompon, Leyte. Approximately 2,500 kilometers of cable are covered by PDSCN.
The cable was acquired from the Japanese vendor partner Kokusai Cable Ship Co. and the international fiber optic cable manufacturer Nexans Norway AS. Ltd. was chosen to transport the cable across the archipelago along with the other technical vendor partners Fleet Marine Cable Solutions Inc., SJA Business Consultancy & Liaison Services, and Kyotosh Engineering Services.
According to Arlene Jallorina, Globe Business – Enterprise Group vice president for strategic infrastructure investments, their goal is to offer a first-world network, with the belief that doing so will support the country’s ambition to become the next digital hub in Asia.
Moreover, they want Globe to be known globally as they grow as a digital solutions platform so they can promote more investments in the country in line with their mission to see an admired nation.
On the other hand, the initiative would establish Cebu’s competitive advantage and attract additional investment, assisting the area’s expanding SMEs and booming tourists, according toEastern co-coordinator Aileen Region.
PDSCN is intended to provide inclusive connectivity, which is essential for economic growth and recovery. In the midst of a rising shift to digital platforms, it supports diverse government demands, enterprises, consumers, and other sectors.
It is a component of Globe’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG No. 9, which emphasizes the roles that infrastructure and innovation play as key drivers of economic growth and development, and SDG No. 17, which underscore the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development.
