GLOBE has successfully migrated more than 600 towns nationwide to full fiber connectivity, part of its ongoing efforts to provide Filipinos with faster, more reliable internet and enhance customer experience. These areas are now completely copper-free, enabling residents to enjoy high-speed broadband essential for today’s digital lifestyle, including remote work, online learning, small businesses and government services.
This transition represents not only a network achievement but also a win for sustainability. By eliminating copper from its network, Globe is reducing its environmental impact as part of its green network strategy. This shift also helps discourage illegal salvaging of copper, which has historically disrupted connectivity.
“We’ve built the infrastructure, now we need to protect it,” said Joel Agustin, Globe head of service planning and engineering. “Fiber has no copper, no resale value and cutting it only harms the communities that rely on it. That’s why we’re asking residents to help us safeguard these lines. Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it’s a lifeline.”
No financial gain
Despite the shift to fiber, incidents of intentional cable cuts continue to be reported, often due to misinformation or the mistaken belief that fiber can be sold like copper. Of the initial 425 towns that transitioned early to fiber, 170, or 40 percent, historically experienced intentional cuts. Even in areas where copper theft was common, 63 percent still saw fiber-related incidents, highlighting the need for greater public awareness.
Globe stresses that cutting fiber lines brings no financial gain, but can cause widespread harm. A single cable cut can disconnect entire communities, affecting homes, schools, businesses and government offices for hours or even days. Under Philippine law (Republic Act 10515), intentional cable cutting is illegal and carries penalties.
Protect connectivity
To help protect connectivity, Globe urges residents to:
Report any suspicious activity near fiber lines or utility poles to the nearest barangay or police station.
Support barangay patrols and community watch programs.
Work with local officials to include infrastructure protection in ordinances and local plans.
These efforts support Globe’s collaboration with local government units and national agencies, which focuses on education, prevention and rapid response.
As Globe brings pure fiber connectivity to more towns across the country, it calls on Filipinos to play an active role in protecting the infrastructure that powers digital life — while also supporting a more sustainable future. / PR