Globe, in collaboration with its shared services and outsourcing arm, Asticom Technology Inc., has successfully piloted the Philippines’ first laser communications system, developed by Singapore-based Transcelestial Technologies Pte Ltd.
The groundbreaking development offers a cost-efficient and rapidly deployable option to conventional fiber optics, proving to be an invaluable resource for expanding 4G/5G coverage, improving port operations, and bolstering industries such as finance and business process outsourcing (BPO).
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 COWs 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 Cell Site on Wheels (COW), 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.”
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’s 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 meticulously 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.
Mohammad Danesh, Co-Founder and CTO said, “The Philippine Arena project represents more than just a successful event connectivity solution; it’s a blueprint for the future of agile telecommunications infrastructure deployment. By combining our CENTAURI laser technology with Globe’s network expertise and Asticom’s implementation, we’ve demonstrated how next-generation technologies can seamlessly integrate with and enhance existing network architectures.”
“This collaboration is a prime example of how the telecom industry is evolving, moving towards more agile, efficient, and scalable solutions that can meet the ever-growing demand for high-speed connectivity. It’s a significant step towards our vision of a world where distance and location are no longer barriers to seamless, high-quality communication,” he added.
Mharicar Castillo-Reyes, President and CEO of Asticom, shared her thoughts on the milestone: “Partnering with Transcelestial is an important milestone in our mission to support innovation and growth for our fellow Filipinos.”
“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,” she added.
This strategic alliance aligns with Globe’s vision to lead the digital transformation of the Philippines, driving the nation’s infrastructure forward. With the successful pilot of laser communications technology, Globe, Asticom, and Transcelestial are paving the way for a more connected and technologically advanced Philippines.
For more information visit https://www.globe.com.ph/ and https://asticom.com.ph.
