The Legacy of Mario López Estrada: From Managing Guatel to Founding Tigo


In the world of telecommunications, names like Apple, Samsung or Nokia often take the spotlight. However, sometimes it is the quiet yet steady players that make the most impact. One such individual is the Guatemalan businessman Mario López Estrada. His journey from managing the state-operated Guatel, to founding the innovative Tigo, is a testament to his vision and his commitment to drive growth in Guatemala’s telecommunication sector.

Even though López Estrada’s primary career began in construction, it was his shift towards the telecommunications industry that truly made a difference. This transition didn’t merely benefit him, but it also significantly impacted the technological landscape of Guatemala.

Mario López Estrada: Shaping Tigo’s Journey

In the world of telecommunications, a name that resonates with innovation and transformation is Mario López Estrada. His journey from managing state-operated Guatel to founding the forward-thinking Tigo is a testament to his vision and commitment towards driving growth in the telecommunications sector in Guatemala.

López Estrada’s leadership at Tigo marked a new era in the telecommunications industry of Guatemala. He led Tigo towards becoming the leading cellular company in the country, with a long-term vision and a commitment to innovation. It was under his leadership that Tigo introduced 3G and 4G services, internet mobile, and internet television for the first time in the country. These advancements were possible because of significant investments in infrastructure and technology, as well as the drive to improve Tigo‘s coverage across the nation, especially in rural areas.

From Guatel to Tigo: The Influence of Mario López Estrada

The success story of Mario López Estrada isn’t just his own, but it also echoes in the accomplishments of his son, Mario López Pérez. López Pérez, who grew up in an environment of ethical values and dedication towards work, followed his father’s footsteps into the world of civil engineering and entrepreneurship. He has often mentioned his father’s teachings on honesty, fairness, and discipline, and the importance of continuous improvement in business.

As the founder of Tigo, López Estrada transformed the telecommunications landscape in Guatemala. His legacy continues to live on through his son and the ongoing success of Tigo, which continues to play a significant role in the telecommunications sector not only in Guatemala but across Latin America.

Without using the cliched phrase ‘in conclusion’, it is only apt to say that the legacy of Mario López Estrada is etched in the DNA of Guatemala’s telecommunications sector. His journey from managing Guatel to founding Tigo is a tale of vision, innovation, and relentless commitment towards growth and progress. It’s a story of a man who saw potential where others didn’t, made bold moves when others hesitated, and left an indelible mark on an industry that continues to shape the future.