PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. are ramping up efforts to expand digital connectivity in underserved and unserved communities nationwide through network expansion, community engagement, and initiatives to encourage the activation of government-distributed SIM cards.
Smart said it has activated network sites serving geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in Argao, Cebu; Matalam, Cotabato; Talakag, Bukidnon; Silago, Southern Leyte; and San Vicente, Palawan.
The expanded coverage is expected to support education, agriculture, and local businesses, while enabling local governments to improve the delivery of public services.
Smart is also deploying interim connectivity solutions, including femtocells and satellite connectivity, in identified unserved areas to provide beneficiaries of the government-led Bayanihan SIM program with access to digital services while permanent network facilities are being rolled out.
“Connectivity is only meaningful when it is actively used. As we continue to roll out our network, we must also help more Filipinos make the most of the digital opportunities that connectivity makes possible,” PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo G. Jimenez Jr. said.
Jimenez also represents the company in the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).
Beyond network expansion, Smart has intensified local campaigns to encourage beneficiaries to activate and use their SIM cards.
These initiatives include SIM registration assistance, on-the-ground support, and raffle promotions for handsets and other devices.
Smart has distributed more than 422,000 SIM cards across 152 underserved and unserved sites nationwide under the Bayanihan SIM program, the company said.
The telco continues to work with government partners to increase SIM adoption and extend the program to more communities.
These initiatives are backed by PLDT and Smart’s continuing network modernization and expansion program, which combines temporary connectivity solutions with the accelerated deployment of permanent sites to provide more reliable, long-term service in remote areas.
The Bayanihan SIM program supports the government’s push for nationwide digital connectivity, leveraging Smart’s mobile network and PLDT’s fiber infrastructure.