Globe Telecom is stepping into a new era of network innovation in the Philippines by adopting Free Space Optics (FSO), a laser-based technology that delivers fiber-like internet speeds without relying on physical cables.
Through its shared services arm, Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI), Globe has teamed up with Singapore-based Transcelestial Technologies to speed up the nationwide rollout of this solution. The goal is to bridge connectivity gaps, especially in remote and underserved places, so more Filipinos can join the digital economy.
What is Free Space Optics (FSO)?
FSO is a communication tech that sends data using laser light beams through the air. It skips the usual hassle of laying down tons of cable.
You can roll out high-speed internet fast, even where fiber-optic cables just aren’t practical or would cost a fortune. It’s a flexible way to meet the growing need for better connectivity.
Advantages of FSO Over Traditional Connectivity
FSO brings some real perks, especially for places where geography makes things tricky:
- Rapid Deployment: No digging trenches or chasing permits for cable work.
- Fiber-like Speeds: Delivers performance on par with traditional fiber.
- Cost Efficiency: Installation costs drop, which matters in rural or disaster-prone areas.
- Scalability: You can slot it right into existing networks without much fuss.
Globe’s Strategic Partnership with Transcelestial
In August 2025, Globe and Transcelestial locked in their partnership to roll out Centauri laser communication devices. These are built for last-mile connectivity, mobile network backhaul, and setting up fast connections for events or emergencies.
Globe’s also testing out Legolas long-distance laser links, which can send data up to 15 kilometers. They expect to finish trials by 2026.
Pilot Deployments and Proven Reliability
FSO tech has already shown it can handle the job in pilot projects across the Visayas and Mindanao regions. It also held up during the huge Philippine Arena gathering in 2024.
These successful runs highlight how laser-based communication can tackle real-world connectivity problems in all sorts of environments.
How FSO Fits into Globe’s Network Vision
Gerhard P. Tan, Globe’s Senior Director for Technology Strategy and Innovations, says FSO is now a standard element in the company’s network. Including it in Globe’s infrastructure plans shows a push to future-proof the country’s connectivity while backing national digital goals.
Driving 5G and Smart City Growth
By working FSO into its plans, Globe wants to boost 5G capacity across the islands. The tech’s speed and low latency also make it a great fit for smart city initiatives—think autonomous transport, AI-powered traffic systems, and live environmental monitoring.
The Role of FSO in Digital Inclusion
FSO could play a key role in pushing digital inclusion by connecting communities that have missed out on solid internet. That matters for education, e-commerce, telemedicine, disaster response, and local government.
Bridging these gaps gives people and businesses a real shot at competing in a digital world. And honestly, isn’t it about time?
What This Means for the Future
The expanded introduction of FSO technology marks a real shift away from relying solely on traditional fiber-optic infrastructure. Instead, we’re looking at network solutions that feel more agile, responsive, and, honestly, a bit futuristic.
Globe keeps pushing to refine and scale this innovation. The Philippines might finally see big improvements in connectivity, especially in those stubborn spots where laying cables has always been a hassle.
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Here is the source article for this story: Globe integrates laser communication for stronger 5G infra