NTT Marine Boosts Submarine Cable Operations in PH with New Cable-Laying Vessel

Japan’s NTT World Engineering Marine Corporation (NTT WE Marine) is deepening its role in the Philippines’ submarine cable infrastructure sector, marking its 25th year in the country with the launch of its newest cable-laying vessel, the CS VEGA II, in April.

Registered under the Philippine flag and operated by a Filipino crew, the CS VEGA II highlights NTT WE Marine’s long-term commitment to local digital infrastructure. The vessel will support both domestic and international cable systems, particularly within Philippine waters.

NTT WE Marine President and CEO Mamoru Watanabe emphasized the Philippines’ strategic importance, noting that stable, high-quality communication infrastructure is essential for economic development—especially amid global security uncertainties.

The company is currently involved in the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), a 2,500-kilometer initiative by Eastern Communications, Globe Telecom, and InfiniVAN aimed at expanding digital access across underserved regions.

NTT WE Marine also holds a three-year contract with PLDT for submarine cable maintenance, with PLDT signaling plans to extend the partnership due to NTT’s upgraded technology and services.

As the only company operating a Philippine-flagged, fully-equipped cable-laying ship, NTT WE Marine is uniquely positioned to support the country’s growing digital connectivity demands.