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Tag: PLDT

  • PLDT Home Achieves Strong Fiber Growth in First Half of 2023

    PLDT Home Achieves Strong Fiber Growth in First Half of 2023

    PLDT Home has reported impressive growth in the first half of 2025, driven primarily by its fiber services, which saw revenues increase by 7% year-on-year, reaching PHP 29.5 billion. As fiber now accounts for a staggering 97% of home revenues, the company’s strategic pivot away from legacy technologies is evident. Overall, revenues for PLDT Home climbed 4% compared to the previous year, totaling PHP 30.4 billion, bolstered by a robust fiber rollout, appealing bundled services, and heightened customer interaction.

    Reflecting Growing Demand for Connectivity

    John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business, emphasized that the growth reflects a surging demand for high-speed connectivity and richly integrated digital experiences. “We’re expanding our fiber footprint while delivering bundled services that meet evolving customer needs,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of adaptability in a fast-changing market.

    Subscriber Milestones Achieved

    In H1 2025, PLDT Home not only maintained its premium Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) but also reported a significant influx of new subscribers. The company welcomed 169,000 additional fiber subscribers—three times the net additions from the same period last year—bringing the total number of connections to an impressive 3.53 million. This surge showcases the brand’s reputation for reliability and value in a competitive landscape.

    Balance of Innovation and Service

    This growth is underpinned by both expanding their network and providing enticing bundled lifestyle services. Popular offerings such as Fiber Unli All and Fiber Plus Netflix bring together broadband, mobile, and content in packages that resonate with consumers. In Q2, over 80% of new subscribers opted for higher-value plans priced at PHP 1,299 and above, lifting PLDT Home’s industry-leading ARPU to PHP 1,485.

    Enhancements in customer service play a crucial role in this success. Improvements including faster installations, AI-powered support, and expedited repair times have significantly bolstered customer retention, resulting in a remarkably low churn rate of 1.93%. In a world where customers crave immediate gratification, it’s evident that PLDT Home is becoming the fast-food drive-thru of internet service.

    Capturing New Markets with Fiber Prepaid

    Furthermore, PLDT Home is tapping into new household segments through its Fiber Prepaid offerings, catering to families who prefer the flexibility of prepaid plans. Early reports indicate that this strategy is paying off, as ARPU levels remain consistent, signaling that growth is additive rather than detracting from postpaid subscribers.

    Connecting Communities Across the Philippines

    Beyond simply providing connectivity, PLDT Home positions itself as a vital enabler of digital inclusion. Its expanding fiber footprint improves access to high-speed internet across more regions of the Philippines. Currently, the PLDT Group boasts the nation’s most extensive fiber infrastructure, measuring around 1.2 million cable kilometers. The company has passed 19.01 million homes, effectively covering 74% of towns and 91% of provinces, making significant strides in bridging the digital divide.

    Questions & Answers

    How much did PLDT Home’s fiber revenues increase in Q1 2025?
    PLDT Home’s fiber revenues climbed 7% year-on-year, reaching PHP 29.5 billion in the first half of 2025.

    What is the churn rate reported by PLDT Home?
    The company boasts a remarkably low churn rate of 1.93%, indicating strong customer retention.

    How many new fiber subscribers did PLDT Home gain in H1 2025?
    PLDT Home gained 169,000 new fiber subscribers in the first half of 2025, marking three times the net additions from the previous year.

  • PLDT and Globe Launch Exciting Laser Internet Pilots, Connecting Remote Areas with Cable-Free Access

    PLDT and Globe Launch Exciting Laser Internet Pilots, Connecting Remote Areas with Cable-Free Access

    The Philippines is witnessing an exciting technological leap as leading telecommunications operators PLDT and Globe Telecom embark on trials and initial deployments of Taara, a cutting-edge laser internet system developed by Google’s ambitious X Moonshot Factory. Launched as an independent Alphabet company in March 2025, Taara leverages free-space optical communication (FSO) to transmit data using invisible light beams, bypassing the hefty costs and logistical hurdles associated with traditional underground fiber cables.

    Redefining Connectivity with Laser Internet

    Often dubbed “fiber without the cables,” laser internet employs concentrated beams of light as “light bridges” to relay data between terminals. Each terminal can connect over a distance of up to 20 kilometers, with extended links achievable by sequentially placing additional terminals. Taara’s innovative Lightbridge system incorporates mirrors, sensors, and precision optics, all governed by smart software that tracks and locks onto light paths. Once aligned, this technology can deliver impressive speeds of up to 20 Gbit/s—providing a fiber-like performance that turns the traditional challenges of installing cables across rivers and rugged terrains into a problem of the past. Of course, if it starts raining cats and dogs, users will have to wait a while for the connection to clear up.

    Strategic Deployments Across the Archipelago

    PLDT is leading the charge with the activation of three strategic Taara sites: Talim Island in Rizal, Dipaluda in Isabela, and Bagong Pag-asa in Quezon City. The link on Talim Island stretches an impressive 11.8 kilometers across the waters of Laguna de Bay, directly connecting the island to the mainland. In Isabela, the system covers a mountainous 13-km stretch, where conventional fiber installation would be prohibitively expensive. Meanwhile, the deployment in Quezon City aims to mitigate single-point-of-failure (SPOF) risks within its metro network, ensuring a more resilient connectivity infrastructure.

    Butch Jimenez, PLDT’s Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network, expressed the significance of the project: “This is a game changer for us in connecting remote areas. It simplifies the process of providing fiber-like internet to new locations. We’re excited for the residents of Talim Island and Dipaluda to experience the benefits of fiber-to-the-home connectivity.”

    Erick Santiago, who heads Network Strategy at PLDT-Smart, emphasized the company’s proactive stance: “We’ve evaluated this technology for over a year. I’m proud of our network team, who made it viable for us to launch it while others are still in the testing phase.”

    Pioneering Technology in Action

    On the other hand, Globe Telecom is also making strides through its subsidiary, Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI). The company recently reported promising results from a pilot run of the Taara system over Laguna Lake. The trial spanned 11 kilometers, with approximately 80% of the connection floating across open water, achieving wireless optical connectivity of 10 Gbit/s. The trials adhered to the Enhanced RFC 2544 test suite for throughput, latency, jitter, and frame loss, alongside a rigorous 24-hour bit error rate test (BERT), all of which met Globe’s stringent technical standards. In short, the future of internet in the Philippines is looking abundantly bright, if not a little sparkly!

    Questions & Answers

    What is Taara and how does it work?
    Taara is a laser internet system that transmits data using invisible light beams, bypassing the need for traditional underground fiber cables. It uses “light bridges” to connect terminals over distances of up to 20 kilometers, delivering speeds comparable to fiber-optic systems.

    What areas in the Philippines are benefiting from Taara’s deployment?
    PLDT is activating Taara in Talim Island, Dipaluda, and Quezon City, targeting remote areas that struggle with conventional fiber internet installation.

    How has Globe Telecom tested the Taara system?
    Globe successfully completed a pilot run across Laguna Lake, covering 11 kilometers with 80% of that distance over open water, achieving connectivity speeds of 10 Gbit/s while meeting technical performance standards.

  • PLDT Takes Bold Action in Enterprise Transformation: Paving the Way for a Future-Driven Retail Landscape

    PLDT Takes Bold Action in Enterprise Transformation: Paving the Way for a Future-Driven Retail Landscape

    PLDT Enterprise, a dominant force in the Philippines for connectivity solutions and ICT services, is playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation into a strategic digital hub. As the enterprise division of the country’s largest integrated telecommunications provider, PLDT Enterprise taps into the vast resources of its parent company along with Smart, ePLDT, VITRO, and PLDT Global, fueling both local and international business transformations.

    With a heritage spanning nearly a century, PLDT Enterprise is at the cutting edge of the Philippines’ digital evolution, driving secure, intelligent operations with end-to-end solutions that unify people, platforms, and the potential for growth across borders.

    Blums Pineda, who recently stepped into the role of Senior Vice President and Head of the Enterprise Business Group, brings nearly three decades of experience in telecommunications and technology. His career—shaped by leadership positions in the U.S. and Europe across various sectors including B2B tech and banking—culminates in his mission to enhance PLDT Enterprise’s offerings for businesses both locally and globally.

    Pineda outlined his vision for empowering enterprises through innovative connectivity solutions, reflecting a commitment to facilitating growth and digital advancement in the Philippines.

    A New Outlook on Enterprise Solutions

    Having returned to the Philippines after 15 years abroad, Pineda is keen to meld his international experience with an understanding of local business challenges. “At PLDT Enterprise, I plan to unite that global perspective with insights into what local companies need,” he explained. “I’ve seen how the right tools and partnerships can create significant impact—my goal is to fast-track those results for our clients.”

    Bridging local businesses to global ecosystems remains a key priority. By leveraging PLDT’s robust infrastructure, we can connect clients to counterparts who have advanced their digital transformation, allowing them to adopt proven models swiftly and manage risk more efficiently.

    Enabling Clients with High-Speed Connectivity

    The cornerstone of PLDT Enterprise’s strategy revolves around delivering high-speed and secure connectivity on a future-ready network. Recent initiatives include investments in the Asia Direct Cable (ADC) and the forthcoming Apricot cable system, which promise to expand international data capacity by 33% while enhancing access to critical global hubs.

    However, securing digital assets is about much more than just connectivity. Pineda pointed out that PLDT is dedicated to bolstering cybersecurity measures, scalable storage, and seamless cloud access. For instance, the company has aided a major consumer goods firm in safeguarding operations through comprehensive Business Continuity and Managed Security Services, ensuring uninterrupted readiness across the board.

    Notably, PLDT has taken robust steps to fortify cybersecurity across various sectors, such as conducting large-scale workshops aimed at equipping employees to recognize and thwart cyber threats. In another notable case, it mitigated a ransomware attack on a significant real estate client by deploying an emergency 5G network, restoring operations while cleverly sidestepping ransom payments.

    Elevating the Data Center Game

    As today’s enterprises increasingly rely on data centers, PLDT’s VITRO data center in Santa Rosa stands out, conforming to global hyperscaler standards and dissipating any surprises for international clients about the Philippines’ capabilities. “What’s more astonishing,” Pineda boasts, “is that we built it ahead of the curve, anticipating demand well in advance.”

    This facility, strategically linked to essential subsea cables, guarantees seamless international connectivity—a game changer for handling substantial data transactions. Upcoming innovations include the launch of GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS), allowing businesses to harness GPU capabilities flexibly as they dabble in AI.

    Our data center strategy dives deep beyond capacity, focusing on power and cooling necessities. We meticulously select locations to ensure they are futureproof and poised to expand alongside market demands.

    Strategically, PLDT Group is not resting on its laurels with VITRO Santa Rosa; plans are already underway for a new wave of data centers to meet forthcoming needs head-on.

    Innovating Towards the Centenary

    As PLDT gears up to celebrate its centennial in 2028, PLDT Enterprise is laser-focused on delivering innovations that cater to precise customer requirements. While competitive pricing is crucial, the company prioritizes providing long-term value through meaningful partnerships and actionable insights, enabling businesses to push beyond immediate goals.

    Aiming to bolster the Philippines’ national digital agenda, PLDT is also exploring opportunities in sovereign cloud services, facilitating essential local government solutions, from enhancing emergency response systems to disaster recovery initiatives. “For us, innovation extends beyond technology—it’s about tackling tangible challenges and streamlining processes,” Pineda stated.

    Ultimately, PLDT is committed to helping clients scale and compete on the global stage, intertwining world-class infrastructure and insights to redefine how technology underpins modern business success.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Blums Pineda’s vision for PLDT Enterprise?
    Pineda envisions marrying his extensive global experience with local insights to empower businesses through innovative connectivity and infrastructure solutions, aiming to accelerate digital transformations for clients.

    How is PLDT Enterprise enhancing cybersecurity for its clients?
    PLDT Enterprise implements a holistic approach by providing Managed Security Services, conducting workshops for employees, and addressing specific threats like ransomware attacks through swift operational restoration methods.

    What future developments can we expect from PLDT’s data centers?
    PLDT plans to enhance its VITRO data center capabilities and launch GPU-as-a-Service to accommodate AI initiatives while also expanding its network of data centers to meet growing demand.

  • PLDT and Smart Join Forces with Radisys to Enhance Connectivity Through Innovative FWA Testing

    PLDT and Smart Join Forces with Radisys to Enhance Connectivity Through Innovative FWA Testing

    PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm, Smart Communications, are stepping into the future of connectivity with the recent testing of Radisys’ Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology. This innovative solution aims to transform internet access in areas where installing fiber-optic infrastructure poses significant challenges. Spearheaded by PLDT’s Network Strategy and Architecture team, this initiative underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing internet coverage across the Philippines, paving the way for a more connected future.

    Revolutionary Connectivity Solutions

    Radisys’ point-to-multipoint FWA technology operates similarly to a traditional cell site, utilizing a single base node to connect with specialized remote radio nodes installed at customer locations, such as homes and commercial buildings. This means that with Radisys FWA, PLDT can now offer fiber-like internet speeds wirelessly, ensuring near-instant access to high-speed connectivity. During testing, the results were nothing short of impressive, with download speeds soaring to 945 Mbps and upload speeds reaching 929 Mbps.

    Unlocking New Possibilities for Consumers

    The promising tests showcased the FWA’s ability to support a range of services, from video streaming to internet browsing, encompassing popular platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. This proof of concept is part of PLDT’s aggressive strategy to explore new technologies, which also includes the country’s inaugural trial of 50G passive optical network (PON) technology in 2023. This advancement enables PLDT to offer services at 50 Gbps when needed, further enhancing the digital landscape in the Philippines.

    Strategic Insights from PLDT Leadership

    Radames Zalameda, Vice President and Head of Wireless Network Strategy and Architecture, remarked, “Fixed wireless access using Radisys technology has already been deployed successfully in large markets like India. We saw a strong opportunity to adapt this proven solution for the Philippine setting, particularly in regions where fiber installation remains a challenge.”

    Adding to this, Lennart Olaivar, AVP and Head of the Wireless Network Strategy and Transformation Office, emphasized the systemic benefits of this solution, stating, “This point-to-multipoint solution offers a simpler, faster way to deploy high-speed connectivity without extensive civil works, delivering fiber-like speeds over the air. It’s an ideal option for hard-to-reach or underserved areas.”

    A Commitment to Inclusion and Progress

    Menardo G. Jimenez, Network Head at PLDT and Smart, encapsulated the overarching goal: “At PLDT and Smart, we believe that fast, reliable connectivity is crucial for national development. To bridge the digital divide and ensure that no Filipino is left offline—especially in underserved communities—we must remain at the forefront of innovation. Testing next-generation technologies like fixed wireless access is not just a novelty; it’s about significantly improving the customer experience and supporting the broader digitalization goals of the country.” Who knew chasing connectivity could feel this exhilarating?

    By the end of March 2025, PLDT’s fiber infrastructure will span over 1.2 million cable kilometers, marking it as the most extensive in the nation. This robust network not only underlies Smart’s mobile coverage, which reaches 97% of the Philippine population, but also aligns with PLDT Group’s mission to close connectivity gaps. The company supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal No. 9—focused on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure—underscoring their commitment to a digitally inclusive future.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Radisys Fixed Wireless Access technology?
    Radisys Fixed Wireless Access technology allows internet service providers to offer high-speed, fiber-like internet connectivity wirelessly, using point-to-multipoint technology that connects various customers to a single base node.

    What speeds did PLDT achieve during the testing of this technology?
    During testing, PLDT reached download speeds of 945 Mbps and upload speeds of 929 Mbps, showcasing the impressive capabilities of the Radisys FWA system.

    How does this technology contribute to closing the digital divide in the Philippines?
    The fixed wireless access technology provides a faster and simpler deployment of high-speed internet in underserved areas, ensuring that more Filipinos have access to reliable connectivity and improving overall digital inclusion.

  • PLDT, Smart, and DICT Unite to Boost Digital Skills Among Filipinos

    PLDT, Smart, and DICT Unite to Boost Digital Skills Among Filipinos

    PLDT and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), are joining forces with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in an ambitious effort to enhance digital literacy among Filipinos, with a particular focus on underserved communities. The initiative, dubbed “Tech for Good, Tech for All,” aims to equip more citizens with essential digital skills, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in an increasingly connected world.

    “Through this program, we are working with the DICT to build a digitally empowered nation, allowing more Filipinos to thrive in a digital economy,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement Team at PLDT and Smart. This collaborative effort seeks to bridge the digital divide and foster greater inclusion as the Philippines advances towards a more connected future.

    In an exciting start to this initiative, PLDT and Smart organized a Basic Digital Literacy session during the ‘Training of Trainers’ for key personnel from the ICT Literacy and Competency Development Bureau (ILCDB) and DICT Center managers. This session focused on practical skills essential for the digital age, such as smartphone usage, social media navigation, and online selling—tailored specifically for seniors and those new to technology. Yes, even Grandma can learn to sell her craft items online!

    These trainers — tasked with overseeing the country’s Tech4ED-DTCs (Technology for Education, Employment, Entrepreneurs, and Economic Development – Digital Transformation Centers) — are key figures in community-based digital hubs providing critical access to e-government services and educational resources. “At the DICT, we are committed to ensuring every Filipino, regardless of location, has the tools and skills to engage in today’s digital landscape,” stated Jimmicio S. Daoaten, Director IV of ILCDB of DICT. By localizing training opportunities, the project empowers individuals to actively participate in the country’s digital revolution.

    This innovative approach aligns with the global Digital Transformation Centers (DTC) Initiative launched by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Cisco in 2019. With PLDT and Smart acting as the exclusive telecommunications partners in the Philippines, this partnership underscores the PLDT Group’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive digital progress across the nation.

    Questions & Answers

    How does the “Tech for Good, Tech for All” initiative aim to assist underserved communities?
    The initiative seeks to equip Filipinos in underserved communities with essential digital skills by providing access to training programs that focus on practical uses of technology, thus bridging the digital divide.

    What specific skills are being taught in the Basic Digital Literacy sessions?
    The sessions cover practical digital skills such as smartphone usage, social media navigation, and online selling, specifically tailored for seniors and individuals new to technology.

    What is the significance of the Tech4ED-DTCs?
    Tech4ED-DTCs are community-based digital hubs that provide critical access to e-government services and learning resources, playing a vital role in facilitating digital inclusion and education.

  • PLDT Strengthens Digital Growth with Data Center Expansion

    PLDT Strengthens Digital Growth with Data Center Expansion

    PLDT Chief Operating Officer, Menardo Butch G. Jimenez, emphasized the increasing potential of tech-focused telcos in the region’s changing digital landscape. He mentioned, “We have already built 10 data centers and are finishing our 11th and biggest facility, which shows how strongly we believe that data centers are an important part of PLDT’s revenue growth.” He also said that PLDT has experienced strong growth rates in its data center business over the past five years.

    Through its subsidiary, ePLDT, PLDT has become a leader in the Philippines data center industry. The company operates a network of VITRO data centers, providing solutions for customers’ increasing IT outsourcing needs. The VITRO Sta. Rosa Data Center, the largest and most advanced in the country, is positioned to be the Philippines’ artificial intelligence (AI) hub, forming the first AI ecosystem in the nation.

    Jimenez also highlighted that data sovereignty laws represent a significant upcoming development, noting that localized data storage regulations enforced by the government will drive the demand for domestic data centers. Looking forward, PLDT is preparing for an AI-powered future by offering GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) to meet the growing need for high-performance computing (HPC) due to AI and machine learning (ML) adoption.

    Through investments in data centers, AI infrastructure, and green energy, PLDT is solidifying its position as a leader in digital transformation and shaping the future of the telecommunications industry.

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  • PLDT, Smart Lead National Drive to Protect Telecom Infrastructure

    PLDT, Smart Lead National Drive to Protect Telecom Infrastructure

    In partnership with public and private stakeholders, including local government units and communities, the companies aim to ensure reliable connectivity and uninterrupted service across the nation.

    “Protecting our infrastructure is not just about safeguarding our business operations; it is about ensuring that our customers and communities can rely on uninterrupted connectivity and technology that are essential for our country’s development within a safe and secure cyber environment,” said Atty. Roy Ibay, Vice President and Head of Regulatory at Smart and convenor of PROTECTA Pilipinas, a public-private partnership dedicated to safeguarding technology and telecommunications infrastructure nationwide.

    PLDT, Smart, and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) spearheaded the launch of a coalition focused on telecommunications infrastructure protection. The launch brought together key stakeholders, including the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators; advocacy group, CITIZENWATCH Philippines; think-tank, Infrawatch PH; the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group; the Federation of International Cable TV Association of the Philippines (FICTAP); and the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

    In collaboration with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), PLDT has taken proactive measures to protect fiber optic cables from accidental damage during roadworks, particularly during excavation and digging activities.

    Beyond partnerships with government agencies and industry players, PLDT Group has been encouraging its customers and communities to report illegal activities such as cable theft, breakage, and related incidents to local authorities.

    These initiatives reflect PLDT and Smart’s commitment to enhancing telecommunications infrastructure protection, improving customer experience nationwide, and supporting the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

    These efforts also align with the government’s push for digital transformation, which aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure internet access for more Filipinos across the nation.

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  • PLDT’s VITRO, HGC Partner to Strengthen Philippine Data Center Connectivity

    The partnership includes HGC’s integration into the VITRO Partner Network (VPN), a collaboration led by PLDT Enterprise that brings together carriers, system integrators, and technology firms. This network allows partners to integrate VITRO’s infrastructure into their services seamlessly.

    Gary F. Ignacio, VITRO’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed that the collaboration will open up new opportunities for VITRO and extend its reach by leveraging HGC’s global network.

    This enables HGC to extend its presence to the new VITRO Sta. Rosa Data Center, which PLDT describes as the Philippines’ first and largest hyperscale-grade facility. HGC will deliver connectivity and telecom services to hyperscalers and enterprises co-located at VITRO Sta. Rosa, offering expanded reach and more connectivity choices.

    HGC also stated that the agreement strengthens its Point of Presence (PoP) in the Philippines and fosters an ecosystem that supports further expansion of its data center connectivity. This move reinforces HGC’s position within the country’s rapidly evolving technology and digital infrastructure landscape.

    Michael De Castro, HGC’s first Vice President for In-Country Project Investment and President of HGC’s Digital Well Infrastructure Corp (DWIC), noted that the partnership aims to achieve HGC’s goal of delivering its globally recognized quality of service.

    He explained that this will be accomplished by combining VITRO’s advanced infrastructure with HGC’s extensive premium fiber-optic network in Luzon, including Metro Manila and key areas of Mindanao, along with th

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  • SIM Cards Must Now Be Registered With Telcos in the Philippines

    SIM Cards Must Now Be Registered With Telcos in the Philippines

    Mobile phone users in the Philippines must now register their SIM cards with their telecom provider after the country’s President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., signed into law the SIM Card Registration Act.

    According to the official dispatch, the new measure aims to promote accountability in the use of SIM cards and help law enforcement to track those involved in crimes committed through mobile phones.

    Under the new law, all public telecommunications entities or direct sellers must require the SIM card user to show a valid identification document with a photo.

    The registered SIM card details will not be disclosed unless the user authorizes access to his information.

    Law enforcement agencies that conduct probes on purported crimes committed through phones may also submit a written request to telco firms to disclose the details of the SIM card holder.

    The two telecom giants in the Philippines, Globe Telecom and PLDT Group, had previously expressed support for this measure, saying they would be helping the government in preventing crimes committed electronically.

    The law consolidates the bills approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate.

  • PLDT to Start Construction Of Two Major ICT Projects by Year End

    PLDT to Start Construction Of Two Major ICT Projects by Year End

    PLDT Group announced that it will inaugurate the construction of its fourth cable landing station and the initial construction phase of the Asia Direct Cable (ADC) system by the end of the year.

    The two additional major ICT infrastructure projects follow the group’s build-out of the Philippines’ largest hyperscaler data center and the activation of Jupiter, the fastest international cable direct to the US and Japan.

    “After the successful launch and activation of Jupiter, PLDT hopes to lead the country to become the best Transpacific cable hub in Asia, as we work on delivering additional subsea cables and new cable landing stations in 2024,” said former PLDT VP and Technology Advisor for Enterprise Victor Aliwalas.

    The cable landing station in Baler, Aurora, to be completed by 2024, will supplement PLDT’s international gateway on the northern and eastern borders. The ADC cable, meanwhile, is expected to be completed by the end of 2023 and is strengthening the country’s data links in Asia.

    “Apart from the DC and the International connectivity, PLDT is also leading the charge on 5G rollouts and domestic fiber rollouts on top of all the other platforms to significantly increase the country’s take up of digitalization. We are not focusing on just one or two pillars, we are building out the entire ecosystem to work as a whole. We need a full working and energized system to support this hyperscale initiative and PLDT is determined to put together everything to be the strongest hyperscale player in the country, to establish and promote the Philippines as a hyperscale destination,” Aliwalas added.

    PLDT has been working closely with government agencies, including the Department of Trade of Industry and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in positioning the Philippines as the next hyperscaler hub in the Asia Pacific, as the country transforms into a globally competitive and digitally empowered nation.

    “We believe that the hyperscalers industry will be the next growth engine of the Philippines. We are keen on helping hyperscalers cloud services and start-up ecosystem in the Philippines,” Aliwalas further noted     .

    DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy also recognized the crucial role of ICT in the social-economic development of the country, saying, “the value of information and communications technology or ICT is encompassing. It is necessary in every aspect of life, business, education, and in advancing our general scientific understanding.”

    “We still have a lot of improvement on key strategic areas such as digital infrastructure buildup to achieve the President’s goal of a digitally transformed Philippine government. Hence, it’s important for us to address the gaps that hinder our drive towards inclusive growth and innovation, especially the long-standing gap in the development of digital connectivity nationwide. And indeed, we want to work hand in hand with our partners to achieve this goal,” he added.

    Last year, PLDT joined the multi-agency government initiative to support the priming of the country’s digital readiness to attract global hyperscalers expanding in Asia, including it as the sixth key sector and highlighting the strong government and private sector partnership to cement the foundation of the Philippine digital economy.

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  • Smart Partners With Omnispace to Explore Space-Based 5G Technologies

    Smart Partners With Omnispace to Explore Space-Based 5G Technologies

    PLDT’s wireless subsidiary Smart Communications is collaborating with US-based Omnispace to explore and demonstrate the capabilities of space-based 5G communications using low earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

    In a statement, the Head of PLDT’s Technology Strategy and Transformation Office, Arvin Siena said, “This collaboration with Omnispace will allow our companies to work together to define use cases for the Philippine market.”

    He added that possible use cases include enabling 5G connectivity in remote areas, incorporating IoT and sensors for use in monitoring weather disturbances and natural calamities, and augmenting network coverage for disaster relief, maritime and telematics for vessels and equipment.

    “This is also part of PLDT’s broader initiatives to future-proof our services, including Smart 5G. This includes exploring opportunities to team up with companies like Omnispace, to test the interoperability of our network with their 3GPP-compliant 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN), which will support the 5G ecosystem of the future,” Siena added.

    Having launched Omnispace Spark-1 and Spark-2 in April and May, respectively, the company recently completed the deployment phase of Omnispace Spark™. This program is the initial phase in the company’s development and delivery of the world’s first global 5G-capable satellite network.

    The Omnispace 5G NTN global network will interconnect with terrestrial or land-based mobile networks to serve mobile subscribers utilizing the company’s 2 GHz mobile satellite spectrum allocation and operating in 3GPP band n256.

    As the world’s first 3GPP-compliant 5G NTN system, the Omnispace network is expected to deliver the power of 5G directly to billions of devices everywhere, extending the reach of mobile connectivity to enable people and assets to communicate in real-time through a single, seamless global service.

    “We are excited to announce this collaborative agreement with Smart Communications, which shares our vision of delivering reliable mobile connectivity to consumer, government and enterprise users, everywhere,” said Brian Pemberton, Omnispace. “Together with Smart, we seek to bridge the digital divide, while also providing the communications infrastructure to power the development of the Filipino economy of the future.”

    PLDT and Smart’s pioneering foray into satellite-powered communication is part of their broader initiative to deliver world-class customer services across the country, complementing the nationwide rollout of their fiber infrastructure, and wireless networks based on 4G and 5G technologies.

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  • DITO Slapped With Interconnection Penalty by Globe After Filing Anti-Trust Complaints vs Telco Giants

    DITO Slapped With Interconnection Penalty by Globe After Filing Anti-Trust Complaints vs Telco Giants

    The Philippines’ two pioneering telecom firms, Globe and PLDT’s wireless unit Smart, hit back at new industry player DITO after it filed a complaint against the two firms for their alleged anti-trust practices.

    Local media reports cited Globe’s statement saying that it had asked the local telecoms regulator to penalize DITO with 622 million pesos’ worth of fines for violating telecom rules. The statement said DITO made “fraudulent calls” through its network to Globe, calls which allegedly sidestepped “proper voice traffic channels”.It said that an average of 1,000 fraudulent calls were allowed to pass daily through DITO’s network to Globe users, which breaches the interconnection rules. Globe said the calls were “fraudulent” as they were international in origins that were masked as calls being made locally.

    According to reports, Globe also asked the local telecom regulator to allow its “temporary disconnection” of interconnection trunk lines with DITO until it resolves all alleged illegal bypass operations coming from its network and until it pays Globe all existing charges for what it says are fraudulent calls.

    Smart meanwhile said in a statement that DITO’s complaint was “baseless” and denied that they are in any way involved in anti-trust activities against DITO.

    A day before Globe’s move, DITO filed with the Philippine Competition Commission two separate complaints against Smart and Globe. It accused them both of abusing their market dominance by imposing interconnection barriers, resulting in low interconnection for calls made by DITO subscribers to Globe and Smart.

    The Philippine Competition Commission said in a statement, “Our Competition Enforcement Office (CEO) is now evaluating the merits of Dito’s complaints. The Commission has 10 days within which to decide whether or not to give due course to the complaint. If given due course, our CEO will proceed to investigate the charges and if it subsequently finds sufficient basis, file with the Commission en banc a Statement of Objections against the allegedly erring entities. The PCC shall also consult with the National Telecommunications Commission for related regulatory concerns.”

  • PLDT’s Trans-Pacific Cable System Is Now Activated

    PLDT’s Trans-Pacific Cable System Is Now Activated

    The last test 14,000-kilometer cable system is the fastest in the country, enabling direct data cable link to the US and Japan. It’s also expected to improve the Philippines’ international data capacity and boost its digital infrastructure.

    PLDT and Smart President and CEO Alfredo Panlilio said, “The PLDT Group takes pride in leading our nation’s digital advancement, made possible through dynamic synergies with government and private sector partners.”

    He added, “Our investment in Jupiter will exponentially boost the Philippines’ international capacity, ramp up the global trade of digital services and propel the nation’s digital economy, while increasing internet speed and reliability for Filipinos.”

    The company also said that this new system will triple PLDT’s international capacity to about 60 Terabit/s, which will be beneficial for the country since a large volume of Internet content and services consumed by Filipinos goes through servers from the US and Japan.

    Currently, PLDT has extensive participation in 16 international submarine cable networks and is set to expand further with the completion of two more major international cable systems, namely Asia Direct Cable (ADC) and the APRICOT cable system, set to be completed in the next two years. It also operates the most expansive fiber optic network among local ISPs at 803,000 kilometers, linking all islands in the archipelago with fiber connectivity and powering local economies and communities in the cities and regions.

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  • PLDT, Smart Lauds Government’s New Cybercrime Lab

    PLDT, Smart Lauds Government’s New Cybercrime Lab

    Philippines’ major telecoms group, Smart and PLDT said it welcomes the country’s new Digital Forensics Platform and Laboratory launched by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, or ICC.

    The new facility aims to improve the government’s initiatives to fight cybercrime, especially, online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

    Following the unveiling of this new laboratory, the group said that it has strengthened its cyber security systems as it continues its cooperation with the local government in fighting across the digital landscape.

    The new facility will help CICC to work closely with other law enforcement agencies in the country to conduct comprehensive digital and forensic investigations.

    The group’s Chief Information Security Officer, Angel Redoble, meanwhile stressed that they will continue to address these challenges in the cyberspace.

    “Children became more vulnerable to cyberattacks after the pandemic forced them to stay at home and get online to study and connect with friends, and cyber criminals have also been targeting them. We have fortified our cyber defenses and strengthened our coordination with the government to make the internet safer for kids.”

    According to PLDT and Smart, they have beefed up their efforts to support the government in its crackdown on online child abuse. By the end of May this year, it has blocked nearly 300,000 URLs linked to these criminal activities.

    The group has also collaborated with other private and public sectors in urging the country’s president to sign into to law the bill against online child sexual abuse before he steps down from office on June 30.

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  • PLDT taps Panlilio as chief revenue officer

    PLDT taps Panlilio as chief revenue officer

    PLDT announced Alfredo S. Panlilio (AI) will return to the Philippines telco as chief revenue officer of both PLDT and its mobile unit Smart Communications, starting July 1, 2019.

    Panlilio (pictured) currently serves as senior vice president of customer retail services group at the Manila Electric Company (Meralco).

    He first joined PLDT as SVP for the telco’s corporate business group in 1999 and was later tasked to head PLDT’s carrier business group before he joined Meralco in 2010.

    Panlilio will replace Ernesto R. Alberto (Eric), who is set to step down from his post as PLDT and Smart CRO, effective June 30.

    “We would like to thank Eric for his 16 long years of service and loyalty. Under his watch, PLDT Enterprise rose to become the leading force that it is in the market today,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman and chief executive officer of PLDT and Smart.

    Enea has tapped former Ericsson executive Jan Häglund as its new CEO.

    Häglund was chosen to lead the company late 2018 to succeed Anders Lidbeck, who becomes chairman of the board, Enea said in a statement.

    Haglund brings to the table 25 years of experience in the telecoms industry. Prior to joining Enea, he was head of Ericsson’s product portfolio and R&D for digital services.

    Anders Lidbeck, chairman of Enea said Häglund will help Enea strengthen and develop its position as a reference supplier and trusted partner.

    “[Häglund’s] wide-ranging experience across many disciplines at Ericsson will benefit Enea and our continued expansion,” he said.