Globe, together with its subsidiary Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI) and in partnership with Google X’s TAARA, has successfully completed a groundbreaking field trial of Free Space Optics (FSO) technology, marking a significant step toward revolutionizing wireless transport in the Philippines.
The trial demonstrated 10Gbps high-speed connectivity across an 11-kilometer aerial link over Laguna Lake, with 80% of the span traversing open water. Using light-based wireless transmission, the system achieved fiber-like performance without the need for physical cables or licensed spectrum.
“This milestone represents a significant leap forward in our quest to deliver future-ready and cost-effective transport solutions that are rapidly deployable,” said Gerhard Tan, Senior Director and Head of Technology Strategy and Innovations at Globe. “The success of the field trial underscores our commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to expand connectivity even in geographically challenging environments.”
Transforming Connectivity with Light-Based Technology
Unlike traditional terrestrial networks, Free Space Optics uses highly focused beams of light to transmit multi-gigabit data. The field trial employed Google TAARA’s optical wireless link and underwent rigorous testing, including the Enhanced RFC2544 suite (Throughput, Latency, Jitter, and Frame Loss) and a 24-hour Bit Error Rate Test. All performance metrics passed Globe’s technical requirements, proving the technology’s reliability and resilience under real-world conditions.
This innovation provides a rapidly deployable wireless backhaul solution, particularly suited for remote and hard-to-reach areas such as islands and lake communities, where laying fiber is logistically complex and cost-prohibitive.
A Collaborative Breakthrough
Xerxes Jonash Sta. Ana, General Manager of FINSI, emphasized the company’s role in enabling the initiative: “As a leading engineering services company, FINSI is proud to support this groundbreaking project. Our team has been hands-on in deploying and validating the TAARA system in the field. We are committed to bringing innovative, future-ready technologies into the Philippine market—solutions that not only overcome physical limitations but also accelerate digital inclusion across the country.”
Driving Digital Inclusion and Resilience
For Globe, the Laguna Lake trial is more than a technical achievement—it is a validation of how strategic collaboration and innovation can deliver scalable, fiber-like connectivity without the constraints of terrain or right-of-way issues. By leveraging next-generation infrastructure like Free Space Optics, Globe strengthens its leadership in future-proof telecom solutions and reinforces its mission to build a more digitally inclusive, resilient, and connected Philippines.