PLDT has postponed the shutdown of its 2G network by up to two years to give consumers and businesses more time to adjust.
Company chief operating officer and chief technology officer Menardo Jimenez said the 3G network will still be fully shut down by the end of this year, in line with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) target. About 95 percent of 3G services have already been turned off, with the remaining 5 percent still active for critical business use.
Jimenez said shutting down 2G is more challenging because many companies still depend on it. For example, some ATMs across the country still use 2G connections. PLDT needs to coordinate with banks and other businesses before fully retiring the service.
He said the 2G network may remain active until at least the end of 2028, depending on how quickly companies can upgrade their systems.
The NTC had earlier ordered telecom providers to gradually phase out 2G and 3G networks, with an original nationwide deadline set for December 31, 2026. The goal is to free up network capacity and improve mobile services by shifting to faster technologies like 4G and 5G, and eventually 6G.
To help user transition, the NTC requires telecom companies to offer support such as device upgrade plans, free SIM replacements, customer helplines, service centers, and online assistance.
The regulator said newer technologies provide faster speeds, lower delays, and better service quality. However, it also noted that 2G and 3G are still important in rural and remote areas where newer networks are not yet fully available.
