HafaTel launches GSM service on Saipan

HafaTEL has launched its GSM cellular services on Saipan, offering free text messaging services to the Philippines—at least for the first 60 messages.

Raymond Achondo Jr., HafaTEL’s sales manager for Saipan, said the free text messaging services also apply to other international destinations.

HafaTEL opened up an outlet on Middle Road, Gualo Rai last May 13. Achondo said another outlet would soon open near the Mt. Carmel Cathedral in Chalan Kanoa.

“The business has been doing well. Most of the customers who come here are Filipinos. Everybody’s excited with GSM,” Achondo said.

He said some customers visit the center with GSM phone units already. “Many of them buy SIM [subscriber identity module] cards.”

GSM technology is popular in Europe and in Asia, including the Philippines and China. GSM technology allows the use of SIM cards, which encrypt voice and data so that the subscriber can be identified and authenticated to the network.

A SIM can be moved from one phone to another, and different SIMs can be inserted into any GSM phone. The SIM also stores data such as personal phone settings specific to the user and phone numbers.

Wave Runner CNMI Inc., an affiliate of Choice Radio Inc. that operates the iConnect two-way radio system, launched the first GSM service on Saipan sometime last month by introducing iCan cellular services.

Most cellular providers on Saipan use the CDMA technology.

Guam-based HafaTEL followed suit earlier this month, although it is still expanding its cellular sites on Saipan. Guam Wireless Telephone Company LLC operates HafaTEL.

Achondo said HafaTEL has coverage in most of northern and southern parts of Saipan, except at the island’s backside such as Kagman and San Vicente. But he said HafaTEL is in the process of activating cellular sites at the backside soon.

A SIM card costs $39.95, which includes $50-worth of prepaid load. This contains up to 200 minutes of airtime. Achondo said the free international text-messaging applies to the first 60 messages.

HafaTEL has been promoting its Buddy Packs, which come in packages of two cellular phone units. A pair of Nokia 8290r only costs $129; KPT S380, $189; Sony Ericsson T68is, $219; and Nokia 3120, $249. The Nokia 3120 package includes a pair of cameras.