PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), on Thursday claimed leadership in efforts to protect the country’s critical telecommunications infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and reliable customer service across the nation. Their initiatives bring together a broad coalition of public and private sector partners, including local government units (LGUs), industry groups, and various communities.
Roy Ibay, vice president and head of Regulatory at Smart, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, saying, “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.”
The initiative, PROTECTA Pilipinas, was officially launched with the support of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and key stakeholders such as the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators, CitizenWatch Philippines, Infrawatch PH, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group, along with partners from the Federation of International Cable TV Association of the Philippines and Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).
A key focus of PLDT and Smart’s efforts is to safeguard the physical infrastructure, including fiber optic cables, from accidental damage. PLDT has been working closely with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to prevent damage during roadworks, especially those involving excavation and digging activities.
In addition to these partnerships, PLDT and Smart are raising awareness within local communities, encouraging customers to report illegal activities such as cable theft, damage, and other incidents to local authorities to help protect infrastructure from harm.
This proactive approach is vital in ensuring that the country’s telecom network remains resilient, reliable, and secure, ultimately supporting the nation’s technological and economic growth.
