New Globe CEO flags low 5G, fiber adoption as growth risks in PH telco

Carl Raymond Cruz, with his 30 years of experience, is Globe Telecom Inc.’s new president and CEO.

The Philippine's telecom industry is falling behind in digital infrastructure, and urgent action is needed to close the gap, according to newly appointed Globe Telecom CEO Carl Raymond Cruz.

“We are still way behind in terms of 5G penetration,” said Cruz, noting that the Philippines lags markets like Thailand and Indonesia in adopting next-gen connectivity. “If one takes a look at the kind of involvement of the operators in the enterprise or business-to-business space, that does not add up to what Thailand would have at this point in time.”

Cruz, who previously led operations in Nigeria for Airtel, drew comparisons between markets, describing both as emerging economies with volatile dynamics—but emphasised that the Philippines has more stability and clearer growth paths.

For Globe, the underpenetration of 5G, low broadband fiber adoption, and underdeveloped enterprise services represent both growth opportunities and structural challenges.

To meet these challenges, Cruz outlined a two-pronged strategy focused on core connectivity and technology innovation. “The focus in the next couple of months and years will be to bring the focus back on innovation on core telco,” he said. “At the same time, making sure that we continue to be thought leaders in the tech co space.”

Cruz pointed to Globe’s ecosystem—spanning fintech (GCash), data centers (STT GDC), and other digital ventures—as a foundation for long-term differentiation.

He also stressed the broader economic stakes. “Telco is the backbone of the economy of any country. It enables education, financial inclusion, employment, development, and nation building,” he said. “I think we have to probably beat our drums a bit louder in that particular space.”