Globe says network restoration ongoing in quake-hit Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines – Globe Telecom Inc. has deployed restoration teams to quake-hit areas after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake off Sarangani disrupted network services across parts of Southern Mindanao.

As of Monday afternoon, the telco said service disruptions had been reported in about 30 municipalities across nine provinces.

READ: ‘Destructive’ intensity felt after earthquake off Sarangani — Phivolcs

In a statement, Globe said it activated emergency response protocols and is coordinating with authorities and partners to assess the quake’s impact on communities and telecom infrastructure.

Sarangani, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat recorded the largest number of affected municipalities, with several areas experiencing intermittent mobile signal following the earthquake.

According to Globe, some network sites temporarily lost commercial power after local electric cooperatives shut down services as a safety precaution. These affected facilities are currently operating on battery backup systems while restoration efforts continue.

“We continue to monitor network conditions closely and will work with local authorities and power providers to restore services as quickly and safely as possible,” said Yoly Crisanto, chief sustainability and corporate communications officer at Globe.

READ: Energy sector assesses impact of strong Mindanao quake

Apart from restoration efforts, Globe said it was also preparing to deploy its free charging, calls and Wi-Fi connection services in affected communities, though it is still awaiting safety clearances from local authorities.

At least 19 people were killed and 134 others were injured after the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. off Maasim, Sarangani. /pai INQ