PLDT Inc. is progressing on schedule with its Apricot submarine cable system, slated for completion in 2027. This $80 million (P3.9 billion) investment will enhance the company’s international capacity by 33 percent, totaling over 140 Tbps, and improve the stability and resiliency of internet connections in the Philippines and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
Benedict Patrick Alcoseba, PLDT first vice president and head of enterprise product management & global capacity strategy, noted that while progress in Philippine waters is on track, permitting delays in Indonesia have pushed the project’s expected completion from 2026 to 2027. Despite this, the 12,000-kilometer cable system is expected to provide critical infrastructure, connecting Southeast Asia, Japan, the U.S. via Guam, and Indonesia.
The Apricot cable system offers telecommunications companies alternate routes, avoiding traditional West Philippine Sea waters. It is reinforced by two landing stations in the Philippines—one in Baler, Aurora, and the other in Davao—ensuring robust connectivity for international traffic and contributing to the growing demand for telecommunications in the Asia-Pacific region.
