The chairman of PLDT Group, Manuel V. Pangilinan, on Monday projected a bright future for the 5G technology in the Philippines, particularly at this point when 5G devices prices are coming down.
“We have done quite a bit of work to expand our 5G network but there is still so much opportunity ahead,” Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of PLDT and Smart Communications Inc. said, citing ‘green shoots’ in terms of 5G use cases and adoption in the Philippines.
“We are seeing the prices of 5G devices coming down. That’s an important development for us,’ he said.
Smart recently launched the Smart ZTE Blade A75 5G, its most affordable 5G device, reinforcing its push for ‘5G for All’ and enabling more Filipinos to enjoy its benefits.
“Our network team is very keen to see how we can expand and make it more efficient in delivering the kind of services that we see our customers want, such as live streamed sports matches or concerts,” he added.
Pangilinan underscored the importance of staying in harmony with the times in order to deliver the level of service required by customers.
“We need to stay current, to be attuned with the times. We need to challenge the wisdom we have accumulated over the years,” he said.
According to Pangilina, the telco is not just technology for PLDT but a lifeline: “Our customers expect their connections to be instantaneous, seamless, reliable and extensive.”
“Whether it’s a student taking an online class, a doctor doing teleconsultation, or a couple on their honeymoon trying to navigate a new city as they travel — they all need connectivity that works every time and everywhere,” he added.
Pangilinan likewise cautioned against getting stuck in the details and losing sight of what truly matters. “The problem is we are all fish, too, who sometimes do not notice that we are swimming in the water and tend to get bogged down by conversations about specs and features and use cases, while forgetting to rack our brains and imagine a little more,” he said.
“Imagine what our networks can become when they are fully integrated with AI, when connections aren’t just about speed but about intelligence, adaptability and personalization. Imagine a world where our networks become a platform for innovation, not just conduits for data but ecosystems that enable new industries, new products, new services and new ways of life,” Pangilinan said.
