Globe seeks help in cell site attacks

Globe Telecom Inc. said Friday that it has sought the assistance of the police and military to stop rampant assaults by lawless elements against the Ayala-led company’s cell sites.

In a letter to Director General Arturo C. Lomibao, Philippine National Police chief, and Lt. Gen. Generoso P. Senga, Armed Forces chief of staff, Globe noted that for August alone, the company experienced six cell site attacks from alleged members of the New People’s Army. The month started with an attack in San Jacinto, Ticao Island, Masbate, followed by another one in Tabun, Angeles City, and Calumpit, Bulacan, on August 11 and 12, respectively.

On August 15 the worst assault happened because three cell sites in Angono, Rizal; Lemery, Batangas; and Silang, Cavite were targeted within the same day, the company said.

Globe pointed out that its cell sites in Calumpit, Lemery and Silang incurred serious damage, resulting in service downtimes in those areas.

While services in Lemery and Silang were restored a day after the attack, Globe’s coverage in Calumpit is still unavailable. Restoration work is expected to be finished Saturday.

Although it remains vigilant in ensuring that the public continues to enjoy uninterrupted telecom services, its job is being hindered by the spate of violent attacks, Globe said.

The company is taking measures to protect its cell sites, but also needs assistance from the government, particularly the military which is mandated to protect vital installations such as communications facilities.

"The company seeks the government’s help so that Globe Telecom can continue providing telecommunications services to the public, particularly in the rural areas in line with government’s universal access program reaffirmed and stated in [Republic Act] 7925," Globe said.

As of the first half of the year, Globe already has 4,555 cell sites all over the country, a sizeable number of which are situated in provincial areas. Paul Anthony A. Isla