LIVING in the middle of a field with no electricity, water, and connectivity could be highly challenging for many people. But being off-grid became even more distressing during the pandemic when families were forced to be apart due to lockdowns.

Such was the reality that Aling Merley Villa had to endure for a long time. However, things changed for the better when Globe fired up a cell site in Barangay Carmencita, Delfin Albano, Isabela.

Like many Filipinos, Aling Merley was not able to visit her children and grandchildren due to travel restrictions. Thankfully, through the help of Globe mobile data, she can finally get in touch with them anytime she longs for their company.

“Nami-miss ko sila kasi matagal na kaming hindi nagkikita ng mga anak ko dahil sa pandemya,” shared a teary-eyed Merley. “Mas maganda kasi ung video call kasi nakikita ko ung mga anak ko, mga apo ko. Nakakausap ko sila kasi matagal na kaming hindi nagpupunta sa La Union.”

Because of the strong and reliable call, text, and data connection, the Villa family can now entertain themselves despite having no power. “Kahit ganyan yung bahay namin, kahit wala kaming TV, nakakapanood kami dahil sa cellphone at saka sa internet,” she said.

“As long as there are people like Aling Merley who need connectivity, Globe will not stop working to provide them with a #1stWorldNetwork no matter where they are in the country. We want families to be together – strengthened through digital connectivity – and to provide them online convenience in improving their lifestyle,” said Marge Dizon, Globe Vice President for Program Delivery, Network Technical Group.

Globe continues to ramp up its new cell site builds in different parts of the Philippines, including far- flung areas where connectivity is weak or non-existent, as in the case of Brgy. Carmencita. It uses 4G LTE and 5G wireless technologies for faster download and upload, higher bandwidth, and low latency, among other benefits.

As the country’s Leader in Mobile, Globe was able to build 1,407 new cell sites nationwide in 2021. It has also upgraded and expanded 22,300 mobile sites during the said period. Over 2,000 5G outdoor sites and in building solutions (IBS) have been installed.

It is also helping migrate its customers to 5G-enabled devices and offering special 5G-only promos so that customers can experience the power of the new technology.

Globe strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically UN SDG No. 9, which aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation. It is committed to upholding the United Nations Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.

Watch the full story of Barangay Carmencita, Delfin Albano, Isabela on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUcVmX_oke0. To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.