Globe Telecom Inc. will keep its cash capital expenditures unchanged at about $1 billion this year, matching last year’s spending as it channels most of the funds into data services and network expansion.

“Most of it will really go to data services. More or less the same level, $1 billion cash capex. And we will continue expanding the network,” Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz said in a recent interview with reporters.

Cruz said Globe will further expand its fiber network to handle surging data traffic, particularly as artificial intelligence (AI) drives usage higher.

“Fiber is important to account for data traffic. Once AI takes off, data traffic will really increase by probably tenfold. And as Filipinos, we are early adopters of technology,” he said.

Cruz said Globe’s largest data center is on track for completion this year and will be rolled out in phases. The facility is expected to have an initial capacity of about 12 megawatts, although final figures are still being confirmed.

The company’s Fairview data center is already operational and has tenants, even though it has yet to be formally opened.

According to Cruz, the company is also preparing to expand its data center footprint further through its partnership with STT, but there is no scheduled groundbreaking yet for the next major facility, as the company wants to ensure sufficient demand before proceeding.

Last week, Globe said it effectively achieved full mobile coverage across the Philippines with the launch of its first Direct-to-Cell (DTC) satellite service in partnership with Starlink under Elon Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp.

The service will allow Filipinos with standard LTE mobile phones to access data, messaging, voice calls via apps, and SMS anywhere with a clear view of the sky.

“Technically, yes. We have achieved 100 percent coverage across the country. So, right now, 97 percent of the population we cover with our services—current services for the terrestrial traditional network.

Now, the balance, 3 percent of the population can have access to the network and be part of nation building and can have access to live build opportunities, to learning opportunities, to financial inclusion through this DTC service that we're offering in partnership with Starlink,” Cruz said.