GlobeTel boosts CSR despite revenue losses

CEBU, Philippines – Despite revenue losses in 2008 due to shrinking consumer spending, Globe Telecom is not slowing down on its corporate-social-responsibility (CSR) efforts in fact it is geared towards modifying some of its existing programs.

In an interview with Jeffrey Tarayao, Globe community relations head, he said that CSR budget or programs of the company will not be affected by the revenue performance of the company, as budget will be given or approved depending on the intensity of each project.

"CSR is being looked-up as a tool for business building internally," Tarayao said adding that these types of programs are required to strengthen community relations as a way to boost the company's business prospects.

"The telecom's competition right now is in the grassroots," he said.

This year, Globe’s CSR arm will focus on entrepreneurship building, especially among OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers) families in the Philippines, providing practical know-how on how to start small businesses.

A series of entrepreneurship fairs will be launched in different key areas in country, although similar programs had already been started last year in some parts of Luzon, like Baguio, Lipa Batangas, General Santos and Iloilo.

The entrepreneurship fairs will be a different type of event, as it is designed to be a clinic-type of fair, wherein people can consult with the experts on how to start up businesses, depending on their locality and budget on hand.

"It will not be a 'havardian' type [of coaching], but much localized," he added.

Tarayao said as Globe is going to expand its entrepreneurship fairs this year, the company will seek support from the local government units (LGUs), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Recently, Globe Bridging Communities (Globe BridgeCom), one of the flagship CSR programs of the company, recognized 65 public high schools in Cebu for their commitment to sustain their school's internet connectivity.

"The schools were recognized for having shown commitment and leadership in showing their desire to uplift the standard of education through the use of information communications technology," he said.

Globe BridgeCom's Internet-In-Schools Program (ISP) is one of the major education programs of Globe BridgeCom. The program utilizes Globe Broadband to provide free Internet connectivity in applicable public high schools in the country. ISP is also Globe's contribution to the nationwide program, Gearing Up Internet Literacy & Access for Students (Gilas).

Early this month, Globe Telecom reported a 15 percent drop in profits, citing higher costs in maintaining its operations and decreased consumer spending.

Net income dropped to P11.3 billion in 2008, from P13.3 billion in 2007. Wireless revenues fell one percent to P55.63 billion last year, from P56.41 billion in 2007. — Ehda M. Dagooc