Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the wireless unit of PLDT Inc., reported a sharp uptick in mobile data usage in the first quarter of 2025, underscoring the commercial importance of 5G technology as the telco race intensifies.
Smart’s active mobile data users reached 40.9 million by end-March, placing it ahead of its nearest rival. This growth coincided with a year-on-year surge of over 80 percent in 5G data traffic, while 5G device adoption rose by around 60 percent quarter-on-quarter. The increase was attributed to more affordable 5G phones, competitive data packages, and sustained upgrades to Smart’s nationwide network.
“The shift to 5G is improving how our network runs—making it more efficient, supporting LTE and especially 5G users, and strengthening everyday mobile experiences,” said Smart chief operating officer Anastacio R. Martirez. “This momentum puts us in a better position to steady our revenues and to keep growing the individual segment.”
In the January–March period, PLDT’s Individual Wireless segment posted revenue of ₱21.3 billion, with mobile data contributing ₱18.8 billion, or 88 percent of the total. Data revenue held steady year-on-year, even as broader market trends suggested a softening in telecoms.
Martirez emphasized that Smart continues to outperform in data growth. “We’re focused on growing data traffic year after year and staying ahead of the competition,” he noted. “The company does not see the same softening trend as the rest of the industry, with data traffic continuing to grow, supported by strong 5G networks.”
Smart’s mobile network now covers 97 percent of the Philippine population and forms part of PLDT’s integrated network—complemented by the country’s most extensive fiber infrastructure. The sustained investments reflect the PLDT Group’s broader push to enhance user experience and secure its competitive position in an increasingly data-driven market.
