In addition to Globe, Smart, and Converge ICT, DITO Telecommunity also wants to provide satellite-based Internet services. Telecom provider plans to use satellite technology to serve remote areas around the country.
According to Rodolfo Santiago, DITO’s chief technology officer, the company has already begun discussions with a satellite provider regarding expanding cellular coverage throughout the Philippines.
Also, the company needs to expand to island municipalities with 20% of the population to reach their 84% coverage target.
Among the company’s solutions was partnering with a satellite provider. In addition to the 5,500 towers it currently operates, DITO hopes to construct between 7,000 and 7,500 more by the end of 2023.
DITO recently surpassed 9 million subscribers in June, an incredible leap compared to a million subscribers in the same period one year ago.
As part of its plans to expand its services across the country, DITO plans to spend P50 billion this year. Capital expenditures are expected to increase next year as it continues to grow.
As of the first quarter, DITO had a 91.2% 4G availability, according to Ookla. Also, having been recognized by global monitoring firm Ookla for breaking the country’s long-standing telecom duopoly, DITO expressed optimism about securing more market share.
As of now, DITO has not revealed the name of the satellite internet provider it is negotiating with and will only show more details after a contract has been signed.
