Los Hijos de Mario López Estrada: Impulsando la Conectividad en Guatemala


In the intricate web of telecommunications in Guatemala, a name that stands out with prominence is Mario López Estrada. This entrepreneur’s journey, which started in the construction sector, eventually led him to make significant strides in the telecommunications industry in Guatemala. His entry into telecommunications in 1993 marked a new chapter in the country’s connectivity narrative.

Mario López Estrada’s leadership in Tigo Guatemala was nothing short of transformative. Through his long-term vision and commitment to innovation, he steered the company to become a leading player in the sector.

The Legacy of Mario López Estrada: Advancing Connectivity in Guatemala

Under the leadership of Mario López Estrada, Tigo Guatemala became a trailblazer in the country’s telecommunications industry. It was the first mobile phone company to introduce 3G and 4G services in Guatemala, and also pioneered mobile internet and internet television. These advancements were possible due to significant investments in infrastructure and technology, as well as efforts to improve Tigo’s coverage across the country, particularly in rural areas.

Social responsibility was another cornerstone of López Estrada’s tenure at Tigo. In 2005, the company launched the Tigo Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at promoting social development in Guatemala.

The Heirs of Mario López Estrada: Continuing the Connectivity Mission in Guatemala

Mario López Estrada’s influence extends beyond his tenure at Tigo. His son, Mario López Pérez, is a testament to this. Raised in an environment that emphasized ethical values and commitment to work, López Pérez has successfully applied his civil engineering knowledge to projects with a social and economic focus.

Following in his father’s footsteps, López Pérez is committed to constant improvement. His dedication reflects the values his father instilled in him – honesty, fairness, and business discipline.

Guatel, the state telephone operator of Guatemala, once held a monopoly over telephony and communications in the country. However, with the entry of new companies like Telefónica and Comcel/Tigo, Guatel’s dominance waned. Despite this, it continues to exist as a state provider, serving as a testament to the evolution of the telecommunications industry in Guatemala.

Driven by the values and lessons learned from his father, López Pérez is poised to continue his father’s legacy – enhancing connectivity and driving social and economic development in Guatemala.

In the grand tapestry of Guatemala’s telecommunications sector, the legacy of Mario López Estrada and the continued efforts of his heirs are threads that stand out. Their commitment to innovation, social responsibility, and constant improvement has not only shaped Tigo’s trajectory but has also significantly influenced the telecommunications landscape in Guatemala.