Smart Communications, the wireless subsidiary of PLDT, has opened a new communications tower in San Vicente, Palawan. This project is part of the effort to bring reliable internet service to remote or “last mile” communities across the Philippines, in line with government goals.
According to PLDT chief operating officer and network head Menardo G. Jimenez, improved connectivity allows people in underserved areas to access opportunities in education, livelihood, and innovation. He noted that this achievement reflects successful collaboration between the private sector and government partners to support inclusive national development.
The new facility will support the national Bayanihan SIM initiative, which distributes free SIM cards and mobile data to communities classified as Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs). San Vicente is located approximately 500 kilometers southwest of Manila.
During the launching event held at Old Caruray Elementary School, Smart and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) distributed around 1,500 SIM cards with prepaid data benefits to qualified beneficiaries, including students. Eligible recipients will receive 25GB of data monthly for 12 months, fully funded by the government.
Additionally, the PLDT-Smart Foundation turned over a School-in-a-Bag package to the school. Each kit includes a teacher’s laptop, ten tablets loaded with Department of Education learning materials, a portable LTE Wi-Fi device, and storage equipment.
Local and national officials, including Palawan governor Amy Roa Alvarez, First District representative Rosalie A. Salvame, San Vicente mayor Ramir R. Pablico, and representatives from DICT, NTC, DepEd, and PLDT Enterprise attended the ceremony.
The Bayanihan SIM program is a major government initiative to expand digital connectivity nationwide. It utilizes Smart’s mobile network and is supported by PLDT’s extensive fiber infrastructure. The PLDT Group continues to invest in upgrading its fixed and wireless networks to improve service experience for all users across the country.
