Digicel entered the Bonaire market in July 2006, making it the first mobile operator ever to connect Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao (the ABC islands) under one seamless GSM network.  The company, in a press release, stated that full integration plans are now underway to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for Telbo customers to Digicel.  Bonaire minister of economic affairs, Burney El Hage, lauded the acquisition.

"This is a positive development for Telbo and the people of Bonaire, as it enables Telbo to focus more closely on developing other sides of their business while Digicel will bring Bonaire mobile customers additional choice in addition to increase support and involvemenet in our community."

According to Hans Lute, CEO of Digicel Dutch Caribbean, "We are delighted to welcome Telbo's mobile customers into our family and we are putting the necessary processes in place to ensure a smooth transition with former Telbo mobile customers being able to keep their mobile phone, telephone number as well as their current benefits".

Telbo has operated in Bonaire for the past 23 years, providing a diversity of services such as fixed home connections, mobile telephone, international traffic, lease lines, broadband.  Digicel has acquired the mobile arm of the business.

"We are confident that our customers will be in very good hands with Digicel," says Edsel Winklaar, general manager of Telbo.  "Digicel has a five-year track record of providing world-class quality service across the Caribbean and this acquisition guarantees world-class service and attractive rates for or customers.  I am sure I speak for all our customers when I say we look forward to the benefits of top quality coverage, innovative product offerings and superior customer service - all of which have become the hallmarks of Digicel."

Digicel's Bonaire operations are led by Bert Schreuders, former Digicel Head of Customer Relations- Dutch Caribbean.  Digicel currently has operations in 22 markets.  With more than 3 million subscribers, the company's investment in the region currently stands at US$1.2 billion.

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