Globe warns public vs rise in battery theft

Globe Telecom Inc. is warning the public over the rise in battery theft in its network facilities, urging the cooperation of local governments and citizens to report the incidents. 

According to Globe, 834 batteries have been stolen from their facilities in the first half of 2023, which is 2.4 times higher than the 352 cases reported in the whole of 2022. 

Around 424 of the cases occurred in Mindanao, 363 in Visayas, and 47 in the Greater Manila Area. 

Recently, the firm reported battery theft cases in Malabon on Sept. 23 and in Tondo, Manila on Oct. 20. 

The telco said it uses batteries as backup power in case of commercial power outages. No supply of batteries may cause further service disruptions to the areas or communities being serviced by the facilities. 

"Battery theft, especially those brazenly carried out during the day, are a stark reminder of the challenges we face. While we're dedicated to ensuring 24/7 reliability, the increasing incidents of battery theft undermine our ability to maintain uninterrupted service, especially during power outages,” said Mike Honig, Globe Head of Network Field Maintenance for GMA.

Individuals involved in the theft, purchase and sale of stolen property will face legal consequences, stressed Globe. 

It is asking citizens to report these incidents to the Globe Security Command (09176888545) or report to the Philippine National Police via 24/7 helpline 16677.

Local governments are also urged to conduct random inspections to help secure the equipment of all telco providers.