SMART Communications selects Thuraya for crew calling service that keeps Filipino seafarers in touch
Marino PhonePal service will take advantage of a single satellite network and low per minute low tariff to connect mariners on thousands of vessels to friends and family
DUBAI, UAE, September 9, 2013 – Thuraya Telecommunications Company, a leading Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) operator, has been selected by SMART Communications of the Philippines for the launch of its new crew calling service, Marino PhonePal.
The multi-year deal will see SMART partner with Thuraya on network services and hardware for its maritime voice service, which connects thousands of Filipino seafarers to their loved ones.
Marino PhonePal is an expansion of SMART’s current crew calling service, from an existing Asia Pacific footprint now to include major sea lanes in Australia, New Zealand, Indian Ocean, Middle East, Africa and Europe.
Bilal El Hamoui, Vice President of Distribution at Thuraya, says Marino PhonePal customers will now benefit from a seamless and reliable connection at fixed prices.
“We are pleased to be working with an experienced telecommunications leader like SMART which has a strong connection to one of the world’s major maritime markets. Their background in maritime and Thuraya’s portfolio of high quality and reliable MSS products, flexible solutions and robust network coverage across Europe, the Middle East and Asia are extremely complementary.”
Through this partnership, SMART will offer low cost prepaid calls to seafarers while at sea using Thuraya’s SF2500 voice terminals.
Smart’s Chief Wireless Adviser, Orlando Vea said, “Ship owners and operators understand the value of making a robust crew calling service available to their seafarers. Thuraya offers a strong and reliable solution combined with attractive price plans that fit these requirements. We are excited to embark on this partnership which is beneficial to all parties and most importantly, will benefit seafarers around the world.”
About Thuraya Telecommunications Company
Thuraya Telecommunications Company is an industry leading MSS operator and a global telecommunication provider offering innovative communications solutions to a variety of sectors including energy, broadcast media, maritime, military and humanitarian NGO. Thuraya’s superior network enables clear communications and uninterrupted coverage across two thirds of the globe by satellite and across the whole planet through its unique GSM roaming capabilities. The company’s diverse range of technologically superior and highly reliable mobile satellite handsets and broadband devices provide ease of use, value, quality and efficiency. Thuraya remains committed to serving humanity through delivering the essential tools for optimal connectivity, never leaving anyone out of reach. Visit www.thuraya.com
About Smart Communications
Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is the Philippines’ leading wireless services provider with 57.3 million subscribers on its GSM network as of end-June 2013. Smart has built a reputation for innovation, having introduced world-first wireless offerings such as Smart Money, Smart Load, Smart Padala, the Netphone, and Smart LTE. Smart also offers 3G and HSPA+ services, while its’ Smart Satellite Services, provides communications to the global maritime industry. Smart Broadband, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, offers a wireless broadband service, Smart Broadband, with 1.8 million subscribers as of end-June 2013.
Smart is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Philippines’ leading telecommunications carrier, the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. For more information, visit http://www.smart.com.ph.
