MSCI ESG Research upgraded Globe Telecom Inc.'s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance) rating from “BBB” to "A" after the telco integrated sustainability into its business.

MSCI’s research provides insights that help institutional investors identify risks and opportunities that traditional investment research may overlook.

Specifically, it provides MSCI ESG Ratings on global public and a few private companies on a scale of AAA (leader) to CCC (laggard), according to exposure to industry-specific ESG risks and the ability to manage those risks relative to peers.

“We are very proud that MSCI recognized our ESG efforts. This rating upgrade shows we are on the right track in our practice," remarked Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.

"Moving forward, we will continue with this holistic approach to risk management in order to create value for our stakeholders, minimize risks for the company, and achieve inclusive and sustainable development for all,” she explained.

Committed to reduce its carbon footprint in support of the United Nations’ goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Globe uses cleaner sources of energy and manages energy consumption for its offices and network.

As for its social responsibility, the telco pays proper corporate income taxes ahead of time.

Last April, the Department of Finance (DOF) cited Globe among the top 11 companies that complied early with their tax obligations even when the deadlines were extended twice.

The telco also works closely with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), ensuring that the country's connectivity continues to improve, aligned to global standards.

By serving a large prepaid customer base for mobile and broadband at home, as well as small and medium enterprises, Globe bridges the digital divide and ensures inclusive access to internet and communications services, including financial technology and telehealth.

The company also maintains a strong culture of collaboration, customer-centricity and innovation.

Its employee engagement is one of the highest in the country and ranks better than global high performing organizations.

To protect its more than 80 million customers, Globe invested in highly-advanced cybersecurity systems and proactive customer education to prevent potential data breaches and protect customer data privacy.

Globe likewise placed greater emphasis on business ethics practices and exposure to risks related to corruption and has instituted anti-corruption measures including whistleblower protection and employee training on ethics standards.

Globe recognizes that sustainability goes hand in hand with corporate governance.

As a purpose-driven company, Globe remains committed to the 10 UN Global Compact principles and contributes to 10 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.