Facebook is offering free access to Philippine smartphone users, effective October 31.

The launch marks the first time Facebook has granted Asian smartphone users full access to the network without data charges. Subscribers will be able to access and share Facebook content for free through mobile browsers and its designated app for an initial three-month testing period. The company's partnership with Philippine network provider Globe Telecom (a regional associate of the SingTel Group) could indicate a more aggressive push to capture the Asian market.

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"We think Asia represents an enormous opportunity for growth," said Chris Daniels, Facebook's vice president of partnerships. "Two billion people are not connected to the Internet in Asia, which is a huge market."

"We started the program in the Philippines because 30 million people access the Internet on a monthly basis," he added. "In the coming years, there's going to be a shift in smartphone usage and data usage, and we'd like to bridge that gap on getting online."

The Philippine launch is not the first time Facebook offered free mobile access to users. In 2010, the company launched Facebook Zero, a reduced-feature version to build its international presence in 45 countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. However, users had to log in from 0.Facebook.com to avoid incurring data charges, which led to some confusion.

"Facebook is an immersive experience, and you're not sure when your zero rating starts or stops," said Peter Bithos, senior adviser for consumer business at Globe Telecom. "People thought they were getting free Facebook when they visited links outside of the site, but they were racking up data charges."

Bithos emphasized the importance of free Facebook access in a market where a growing mobile presence is kept at bay by monetary limitations. Even prepaid users who want to visit links outside of Facebook can opt to loan a 10MB data plan for $0.23, which will be charged to their next top-up.

"Developing markets are prepaid markets," he said. "In the Philippines, users keep a zero balance on their accounts 70% of the time, but still want to experience the Internet."

In a country where social media has been proven to be crucial in coordinating disaster relief, free Facebook access could make a greater impact in aiding disaster response efforts.

What do you think will be Facebook's next move in Asia?

Image: iStockphoto, tumpikuja