Telcos note govt has say in blocking network coverage for papal visit

It is the call of government to shut down mobile network coverage as the need arise for both voice and data services in Metro Manila for security reasons in light of the state and apostolic visit of Pope Francis.

 

"It's up to the government," Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) spokesperson Ramon Isberto told GMA News Online when asked if subscribers can expect more network signal disruptions during the papal visit.

 

"You better ask government. We have been complying with the directive," Isberto said.

 

Smart Communications Inc. and Sun Cellular operator Digitel Telecommunications Philippines Inc. are PLDT subsidiaries. 

 

For Globe Telecom Inc., the temporary loss of mobile connectivity is "in compliance with the directive of the National Telecommunications Commission for security reasons," director for external affairs Jocel De Guzman said in an email exchange with GMA News Online, reiterating the company's earlier advisory.

 

Early Friday, subscribers of Sun and Smart complained about the lack of network signal in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.

 

Pope Francis met the Cabinet and the diplomatic corps in Malacañang in the morning and celebrated mass with the clergy and the laity at the Manila Cathedral before noon.

 

"We were instructed to temporarily shut down services in Metro Manila," Isberto said.

 

As to why even nearby provinces were affected, Isberto said this is because "some of the cell sites in those areas can reach Metro Manila." – VS, GMA News