GLOBE Telecom has tapped the Emergency Cell Broadcast (ECB) system to send out urgent reminders to its users just a few days before the SIM registration deadline.
This was done to instill urgency on millions of customers who have yet to register their SIMs.
Globe has used the ECB as a component of network management and implemented the emergency blast within acceptable parameters. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has no objections to the use of ECB after prior notice. The Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act allows the NDRRMC and other relevant government agencies to use the telco network system to blast warnings during disasters and emergencies.
Globe took this step as it sought to urgently advise its customers to register their SIMs to avoid deactivation of their mobile services, which are crucial for day-to-day needs.
Globe believes lack of connectivity will be detrimental to mobile users, as this will impact access to services crucial for financial transactions, healthcare, learning, livelihood, transport and deliveries, among others.
Getting disconnected from mobile services will also deprive mobile users of advisories from the government, including disaster warnings.
“We are at a critical time as the deadline draws near, and we want to ensure that our customers are compliant with the law to avoid SIM deactivation. This way, they will continue to enjoy our call, text and data services for their day-to-day needs,” Globe president and chief executive officer Ernest Cu said in a statement Monday, April 24, 2023.
As of Saturday, April 22, Globe logged over 35.8 million SIM registrations out of its 86.7 million customer base. Globe continues to call on its customers to register their SIMs, even as it called on the Department of Information and Communications Technology to extend the registration deadline beyond Wednesday, April 26.
The SIM Registration Act’s Implementing Rules and Regulations allow an extension of up to 120 days.
The Ayala-led telco giant continues to step up its efforts to register its customers. With its 147 stores and 25 EasyHubs transformed into assistance centers, customers can easily seek help with their SIM registration needs. The company has also partnered with local government units, groceries and malls to set up assisted registration booths in more than 100 sites nationwide.