GLOBE Telecom Inc., in collaboration with its shared services and outsourcing arm Asticom Technology Inc., will deploy the Philippines’ first laser communication system, developed by Singapore-based Transcelestial Technologies Pte Ltd, to further improve connectivity for businesses and communities across the country.
Asticom said it has piloted this cutting-edge technology which offers a cost-efficient and rapidly deployable option to conventional fiber optics — an invaluable resource for expanding 4G/5G coverage, improving port operations, and bolstering industries such as finance and business process outsourcing.
“As their strategic partner for reselling, installation, and services, Asticom will help implement Transcelestial’s cutting-edge technologies across the country, enabling businesses and communities to benefit from enhanced connectivity. We are proud to collaborate with Transcelestial to bring these transformative solutions to life,” Mharicar Castillo-Reyes, Asticom president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.
The trial was held at the 55,000-seat Philippine Arena during an event that gathered thousands. Together with Asticom, Transcelestial ensured reliable, high-speed connectivity, deploying CENTAURI devices to link cell site on wheels (COW) at key infrastructure points.
Transcelestial’s proprietary CENTAURI device, a compact, shoebox-sized unit, is designed to deliver fiber-like connectivity without the need for physical cables, making it ideal for environments where rapid deployment is essential.
It establishes an invisible, secure laser communications network between buildings and solutions like Globe’s COWs, ensuring high throughput and seamless data transmission.
“Laser communications hold immense promise for the future of high-speed, reliable connectivity, particularly in areas where deploying physical infrastructure is difficult or impractical,” said Joel Agustin, Globe head of service planning and engineering.
“With Transcelestial’s innovation, we are not only enabling faster deployment but also enhancing the overall network experience for our customers,” he added.
Despite logistical challenges, the technology maintained robust wireless performance, proving its effectiveness for quick, reliable solutions at high-demand events.
“Asticom played a key role in the rollout and implementation of Transcelestial’s laser technology during the proof-of-concept demonstration in North Luzon. This project tested the reliability of Transcelestial’s laser tech as a network backhaul, showcasing its potential for seamless, high-performance connectivity,” said Marc Kerveillant, Asticom general manager for engineering.
The project rigorously assessed CENTAURI as a network backhaul solution, putting it through extensive testing under a variety of real-world conditions.
Comprehensive network performance metrics and incident reports were gathered throughout the test to validate the efficiency and transformative potential of this pioneering solution.
In addition, the tests examined the integration between Transcelestial’s laser communication and traditional optical backhaul systems, ensuring uninterrupted service.
This collaboration is shows that the telecom industry is evolving, moving towards more agile, efficient and scalable solutions that can meet the ever-growing demand for high-speed connectivity, Asticom said.
It is a significant step towards a world where distance and location are no longer barriers to seamless, high-quality communication, it added.
Globe said the alliance aligns with its vision to lead the digital transformation of the Philippines, driving the nation’s infrastructure forward.
Together with Asticom and Transcelestial, they are paving the way for a more connected and technologically advanced Philippines, following the successful pilot of laser communications technology, Globe added.
