Japanese telecom giant NTT’s unit World Engineering Marine Corp. (NTT-WE Marine) is set to launch a new submarine telecommunications cable-laying vessel next month to help strengthen local digital infrastructure.
The vessel, CS VEGA II, will be registered under the Philippine flag and will enhance the maintenance and expansion of the country’s submarine cable network.
With the growing global demand for undersea cables amid geopolitical uncertainties, NTT Marine president and CEO Mamoru Watanabe sees the Philippines as a key market for expansion.
“There’s a lot of opportunity in the Philippines, and I see it continuing to expand. The demand for submarine cables is growing worldwide, and the Philippines plays a crucial role in this sector,” Watanabe said in an interview with reporters.
Sole cable-laying ship
NTT-WE Marine has been operating in the Philippines since 2000 and remains the only company with a fully equipped cable-laying vessel under the Philippine flag.
“We have built strong trust in the Philippine market over the past 25 years. Our role in maintaining submarine cables is vital to the country’s economic development,” he added.
NTT-WE Marine’s partnership with Philippine telecommunications giant PLDT has reinforced its presence in the country.
Last year, PLDT signed a three-year contract with the company for the repair and maintenance of its submarine cables.
PLDT executive Menardo Jimenez Jr. highlighted NTT Marine’s role in ensuring stable internet and communication services.
“They’ve been very helpful and excellent partners in maintaining and repairing our submarine cables,” Jimenez said.
With NTT Marine’s continued investment in new facilities and the upcoming launch of CS VEGA II, PLDT is considering extending its contract beyond 2026.
“Their facilities are new, they’ve just launched a new ship, and their service remains excellent. NTT is also a shareholder in PLDT, so there’s no reason why we wouldn’t continue this partnership,” Jimenez added.
CS VEGA II will be crewed by Filipino personnel, with both Filipino and Japanese engineers managing operations.
As the country undergoes rapid digital transformation and becomes increasingly reliant on stable internet connectivity, the expansion of submarine cable networks is seen as crucial.
“I believe there’s a big shift happening, with more international submarine cables connecting to the Philippines. This signals great opportunities for the industry,” Watanabe said.
