The PLDT Group is calling for deeper partnership between the government and private sector to make the country’s subsea cable network stronger and more reliable.
Speaking at the Archipelagic Governance for Subsea Cables Forum, PLDT’s Albert V. Villa-Real emphasized that subsea cables are far more than just telecom lines — they are vital national infrastructure. These undersea connections power everything from business operations and banking transactions to government services and family communications, while also supporting cloud computing, data centers, and artificial intelligence systems.
As an archipelagic country, the Philippines relies heavily on subsea cables to stay connected to the rest of the world. Villa-Real noted that with growing global concerns over infrastructure disruptions, the country needs better route options, backup systems, faster repairs, and more coordinated responses when cables are damaged.
He stressed that no single company or government agency can safeguard the nation’s digital connectivity alone. Stronger collaboration would speed up cable installation and repair, improve information sharing, and set clear rules for how to respond during emergencies.
Beyond resilience, Villa-Real also said the Philippines should aim higher than just being a landing point for international cables. By working together, the country can use its strategic location to become a key digital hub in the Asia-Pacific region — attracting investments, boosting the economy, and ensuring Filipinos enjoy reliable, uninterrupted digital services.
