CONVERGE ICT Solutions, Inc. expects its international cable systems, the Bifrost and the Southeast Asia Hainan-Hong Kong Express Cable System (SEA-H2X), to go live by the top of 2025.
Converge Chief Executive Officer Dennis Anthony H. Uy said the Bifrost cable system is scheduled to be operational after the crucial equipment installations and testing.
“The Bifrost shall be up by November or December. Once the cable is prepared, we shall be lining up equipment, so we’re in the method now to put in it,” he said on the sidelines of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo on Monday.
The Bifrost cable system is a trans-Pacific link that connects the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, and the US. It provides ultra-low latency and high-capacity bandwidth, supporting the country’s growing digital economy.
Converge also expects the primary segment of SEA-H2X, connecting Singapore and La Union, to be operational by December.
The cable system is designed for 160 terabits per second capability and has six landing points across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia, and Thailand.
SEA-H2X is predicted to expand international bandwidth and strengthen undersea fiber connectivity within the Asia-Pacific region.
On the domestic front, Mr. Uy said Converge’s plan to carve out its fiber business isn’t a direct priority.
He cited the operational model under the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which allows fiber-sharing amongst operators.
“Konektadong Pinoy already shows how you possibly can share infrastructure with others. We’re already doing this with Sky,” he said, adding that Converge stays open to sharing its infrastructure with latest players.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act, also often known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, lapsed into law in August. It streamlines licensing for brand spanking new entrants and boosts competition in data transmission services.
Converge had previously indicated it would carve out as much as 40% of its fiber business for potential investors, but Mr. Uy said the corporate is prioritizing system deployment and business operations first.
Once operational, the Bifrost and SEA-H2X cables are expected to reinforce international connectivity for Converge customers and support enterprise and consumer demand for high-speed, reliable web. — Ashley Erika O. Jose