Globe, Smart extend free mobile services in Marawi

MANILA, Philippines -  Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. are extending free mobile services to subscribers in Marawi City.

In a statement, Globe said it has reached an agreement with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the provision of free text messages and calls to Globe and TM subscribers in Marawi City until July 20.

Globe started offering the free mobile service offer to subscribers in Marawi last June 22. It was valid for only 15 days.

“Access to communication remains critical given the continuing battle in Marawi City. This is why Globe is extending this free service as we remain supportive of the AFP’s and DICT’s efforts in providing assistance to the residents and the soldiers in the area,” Globe president and chief executive officer Ernest Cu said.

With the extension, Marawi residents and soldiers who are still in the battle zone can continue to connect with their families even if they cannot buy prepaid load.

All Globe and TM prepaid customers in Marawi City will receive a text message informing them of the extension of the promo.

The free mobile service is available only to prepaid subscribers.

Globe’s free services are limited to voice and text messages.

Ramon Isberto, head of public affairs of PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications said yesterday, Smart is also extending the free mobile services for Smart, TNT and Sun subscribers in Marawi.

“We’re extending the free mobile service until the 23rd of July,” he said.

Smart started offering the free mobile service late last month.

Eligible Smart, TNT, and Sun subscribers will receive a notification informing them how they can avail of the free services.