PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications are working closely with government and private partners to accelerate telecom infrastructure development across the Philippines.
At a recent forum at PLDT’s Mandaluyong headquarters, officials from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), and National Electrification Administration (NEA), along with tower companies and industry players, discussed measures to speed up network expansion. The focus was on Executive Order No. 32, which streamlines permits for building and maintaining telecom facilities.
ARTA director general Ernesto V. Perez stressed the importance of stronger enforcement and collaboration, while PLDT COO Menardo G. Jimenez highlighted that connectivity is now a necessity, not a luxury. Smart VP Pamela Felizarta noted that partnerships since 2019 have helped create a more innovation-friendly regulatory environment.
The event, attended by over 300 participants online and onsite, reflects PLDT and Smart’s ongoing efforts to support the government’s digitalization agenda. Recent initiatives include participation in DHSUD-led forums promoting the role of homeowners’ associations in digital inclusion.
Through these collaborations, PLDT Group aims to expand access to fast and reliable connectivity, supporting technology-enabled education, livelihood opportunities, and disaster resilience for Filipino communities.
