ABS-CBN News/File 

Globe recently announced that it has beefed up its data roaming offers, tapping into existing customers who often turn to pocket Wi-Fi devices, international SIM cards, and eSIMs to stay connected abroad. 

Postpaid and prepaid subscribers can now avail of "close-to-local" rates under Globe's GoRoam service, which has been expanded to include Japan, Canada, Australia, and Vietnam on top of other destinations in Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

Paula Rivera-Castillo, head of Globe International Business, said the affordable roaming rates aim to remove the hassle of getting another physical SIM card upon arrival as well as the process of signing up for an eSIM, which may not be compatible with other devices. 

"We do recognize the disruption coming from the alternatives. But right now, we're doing initiatives and trying to price-match what they have to offer," she said in a recent media briefing. "There's also more familiarity with roaming and setting it up."

Addressing the pain points of using a pocket Wi-Fi, Globe has also rolled out its Roam Surf4All promo, which lets up to five users share data without needing an additional device. 

Under the new service, they can add members, set data limits, and monitor usage using the GlobeOne app, and connect to the Internet without having to stay close to each other.  

"Pocket Wi-Fi actually limits your exploration... If you go far away from the person holding it, you won't be able to stay connected anymore. You also have to be mindful of your data usage because the more people that are connected to your pocket Wi-Fi, the slower speeds everyone gets to experience," said Francis Garcia, Globe's head of outbound international business. 

"[With Roam Surf4All] You can all have multiple adventures and you can also be bold enough to explore solo since you're all connected wherever each of you decides to go," he added. 

Globe has also introduced an advance booking feature on the GlobeOne app, allowing its subscribers to sign up for a data roaming plan up to a year before their trip. They also have the option of cancelling their booked promo for free should travel plans change. 

"We're giving you a 48-hour window to activate your roaming [in case of delayed or missed flights and other incidents]," said Rivera-Castillo. "After 48 hours of no activation, that's when we cancel it. There will be refunds available and you won't get charged." 

"We want to remove the pain point of not being connected as soon as you land," she added. 

Eric Tanbauco, Globe vice president and head of consumer mobile business, for his part noted that younger subscribers are beginning to see the appeal of roaming services.

"It used to be the working class and the older segment, but because we have made roaming more affordable today, we do see our younger market also starting to use it," he said. 

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