NTT launching new submarine cable vessel

MANILA, Philippines — NTT World Engineering Marine Corp. is introducing a new submarine telecommunications cable laying vessel that is expected to strengthen the maintenance capabilities for submarine cables in the country’s’ surrounding waters.

The vessel is primarily intended to be operated for the maintenance of domestic submarine telecommunications cables within the Philippines as well as international submarine telecommunications cables in nearby waters.

It will be manned by Filipino personnel, with both Filipino and Japanese engineers carrying out the operational tasks.

NTT-WE Marine, a company known for Japan’s advanced technological capabilities, is the only provider that owns a fully equipped submarine telecommunications cable laying vessel registered under the Philippine flag.

The company, which established its office in the Philippines in 2000, has consistently contributed to the construction and maintenance of submarine telecommunications cables in the country.

“In recent years, with the economic development of the Philippines, the importance of maintaining a safe and reliable communications infrastructure has grown significantly. As an island nation, the Philippines increasingly recognizes submarine telecommunications cables as an essential foundation for economic activities and social progress,” NTT-WE Marine said.

“With the introduction of this newly built vessel, we are confident that the maintenance system for submarine telecommunications cables in the Philippines will be further strengthened, thereby enhancing the stability of the country’s communications infrastructure,” it said.

NTT-WE Marine said that it remains committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology and extensive experience to contribute to the development of sustainable social infrastructure in the Philippines.

PLDT chief operating officer and network head Menardo Jimenez Jr. said the telco giant has signed last year a three-year contract with NTT Marine to help the company when it comes to repair and maintenance of the group’s submarine cables.

“They’ve been very helpful and excellent partners in being able to help us with the maintenance and the repair of our submarine cables,” he said.

Jimenez said that it is possible for the contract to be extended after 2026.

“They’ve just upgraded their facility. They just launched a new ship. So in terms of facilities, they are new and they are upgraded. So I think we will continue the partnership with them,” Jimenez said.

“The equipment is new, the service is very good and NTT is our shareholder as well in PLDT. So, there’s no reason whey we cannot extend that,” he said.