Globe Telecom Inc. has completed the migration of more than 600 cities and municipalities across the Philippines from outdated copper cables to modern fiber technology, strengthening the delivery of a more reliable internet connection.

Covering more than 60 provinces, the Ayala-led telecommunications giant said it has replaced copper cables with fiber optics to enable towns to enjoy high-speed broadband built for an increasingly digital world.

Globe has been ramping up its effort to eliminate copper from its network as part of its commitment to sustainability.

Compared to traditional copper-based systems, fiber technology has a lower carbon footprint due to its reduced energy consumption.

Through this more efficient technology, Globe can transmit data faster over longer distances while consuming less energy, without affecting connection quality.

Apart from contributing to the Globe’s sustainability goals, the company sees fiber migration as a major deterrent to cable theft.

Globe Head of Service Planning and Engineering Joel Agustin said illegal salvaging of copper cables has historically disrupted connectivity.

Agustin said unlike copper, fiber cable has no resale value in junk shops since it is made of glass or plastic. Thieves usually cut copper cables of telco companies to sell them as scrap.

Despite the shift to fiber, Globe said incidents of intentional cable cuts remain, often due to the mistaken belief that fiber can be sold like copper.

Based on the initial 425 cities and municipalities that migrated early to fiber, 40 percent or 170 experienced intentional cuts. In areas where copper theft was common, 63 percent saw incidents involving fiber cable.

Under Republic Act (RA) No. 10515, or the Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act, those caught stealing internet cables can be penalized with an imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to ₱100,000.

“That’s why we’re asking residents to help us safeguard these lines. Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it’s a lifeline,” said Agustin.

Globe is encouraging Filipinos to play more of an “active role” in protecting telco assets as a single cable cut can disconnect homes, schools, and businesses for hours or even days.

The company said the public may report any suspicious activity near fiber lines or utility poles to the nearest barangay or police station, support community watch programs, and work with local officials to include infrastructure protection in local ordinances.