5G Surge Boosts Smart Mobile Data Usage and Users

PLDT's wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) saw more active data users on its network in the first three months of 2025, boosted by a surge in 5G data traffic and 5G device adoption.

As of end-March 2025, Smart's active mobile data users stood at 40.9 million, ahead of the nearest competitor. In the same period, 5G data traffic surged by over 80% year-on-year, whereas 5G device adoption also showed robust growth, increasing by about 60% quarter-on-quarter--buoyed by more affordable 5G phones, compelling data offers, and continued upgrades to Smart's nationwide network.

“The shift to 5G is improving how our network runs—making it more efficient, supporting LTE and especially 5G users, and strengthening everyday mobile experiences. This momentum puts us in a better position to steady our revenues and to keep growing the individual segment,” said Smart Chief Operating Officer Anastacio R. Martirez.

PLDT's Individual Wireless segment reported revenues of ₱21.3 billion in the first quarter of 2025. Mobile data revenues held steady year on year at ₱18.8 billion, now constituting 88% of the segment’s total revenues.

“We’re focused on growing data traffic year after year and staying ahead of the competition,” Martirez said. "The company does not see the same softening trend as the rest of the industry, with data traffic continuing to grow, supported by strong 5G networks."

5G Standalone showcase

At j-hope’s “Hope on the Stage” concert at the Mall of Asia Arena, Smart tested a new kind of 5G technology designed for crowded, high-traffic events. This setup gave fans faster, more reliable internet even in a packed venue—letting them post, stream, and stay connected without the usual signal drops. The new tech is called 5G Standalone (5G SA), a version of 5G that lets Smart carve out dedicated lanes in the network for specific needs—like boosting connectivity for thousands of concertgoers. Smart also gave subscribers access to 5G Max, helping them share their concert moments in real time with friends and loved ones.

The PLDT Group’s continued investment in enhancing its integrated network, including its robust 5G infrastructure, is aligned with the Group’s commitment to deliver leveled-up customer experience across the country. Smart's mobile network covers 97% of the population and is part of the Philippines’ largest integrated network that includes PLDT’s most extensive fiber infrastructure.

Smart's innovative mobile products and services also contribute to the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide, provide connectivity to all, and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. These also reinforce the Group’s support for the Government's overall digitalization thrust.

PSA, GCash Team Up for Expanded National ID Registration and Access to Meaningful Digital Financial Services

To simplify identity verification and broaden financial inclusion for all Filipinos, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and GCash have partnered to make National ID registration and financial services more seamless and accessible, especially in underserved communities.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and GCash have partnered to offer a streamlined process for National ID registration and access to digital financial services. Through a co-location agreement, individuals can now conveniently register for their National ID and open a fully verified GCash account at any of the PhilSys-On-Wheels locations, creating the "one-stop shop" experience for Filipinos. This accelerates onboarding and provides instant access to essential financial tools like savings, fair credit, insurance, and digital payments.

This co-location of services streamlines the process and removes long-standing barriers to participation in the digital financial ecosystem, such as identity verification, which is one of the biggest challenges in financial inclusion. These efforts will enable the PSA and GCash to deliver faster, more secure services to millions of Filipinos.

“This co-location initiative with PSA aligns with our shared goal of extending financial inclusion to underserved communities by providing a venue to register for a National ID and open a GCash account at the same time,” said president and CEO of G-Xchange, Inc, the mobile wallet operator of GCash, Oscar Enrico Reyes Jr.

“Together, through Philsys-On-Wheels and KYC On-The-Go, we are bringing digital financial solutions closer to underserved communities that face significant barriers in accessing formal financial services,” he added.

Reyes emphasized that over 56% of GCash users already use their National ID as a primary verification document, which is a testament to the growing adoption of digital identity among Filipinos.

The lasting impact of public-private partnerships

Through PhilSys-On-Wheels, individuals can register for their National ID and open a fully verified GCash account in one visit, enabling faster onboarding and instant access to essential financial tools, such as savings, credit, insurance, and digital payments.

“This Memorandum of Agreement is more than a formal document—it is a clear demonstration of how collaboration between the government and the private sector can generate meaningful impact,” said national statistician undersecretary Dennis Mapa. “By aligning our strengths, we are creating solutions that respond to the needs of Filipinos, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.”

Mapa noted that PSA has opened satellite registration sites in malls adjacent to its offices across the country. Mobile and maritime deployment will enable deeper penetration into far-flung communities where GCash also aims to serve.

“GCash not only helps bring cashless options to more of our outlets but also increases awareness and access to financial services in places where people need them most,” Mapa added.

Fast, secure onboarding with National ID eVerify Authentication Services

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and GCash are strengthening their partnership by integrating the PSA's National ID eVerify Authentication Services into the GCash app. This integration provides real-time ID authentication by securely cross-referencing user data with the PSA's registry. Therefore, streamlining the onboarding process, eliminating delays from manual review, reducing fraud, and strengthening the Know Your Customer (KYC) process of GCash. The agreement, signed in October 2024, underscores both organizations' commitment to delivering efficient services to millions of Filipinos.

“Real-time ID verification not only boosts trust and security, but also enhances the overall experience of our customers,” added GCash VP for Customer Experience Joanne Avendaño. “We’re cutting down wait times and bringing more Filipinos into the financial ecosystem—safely, securely, and efficiently–showcasing how we innovate with our users in mind.”

eVerify integration into the GCash app has made identity verification smoother and more convenient. Avendaño explained, “This initiative aligns with our goal to serve more Filipinos, especially those outside traditional service areas.”

The Philippine National ID eVerify project is a collaborative initiative of the PSA, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and selected pilot partners from the private sector, including GCash. It supports real-time digital ID authentication, strengthens data integrity, and ensures financial regulatory compliance.

By removing the friction from identity verification, the PSA and GCash are helping more Filipinos gain faster access to a full suite of meaningful digital financial services– from savings and fair credit to insurance and investments – this helps empower more Filipinos to thrive every day, and together, we can ensure no Filipino is left behind.

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

Bitget Launches Starlink Program to Bridge the Digital Divide in Philippine Island Communities

Siargao, Philippines – Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has launched its Starlink Program, bringing high-speed satellite internet to remote islands in the Philippines in a bold move to tackle digital inequality. The initiative, which kicked off in Siargao’s Espoir School of Life and Barangay Pitogo, addresses chronic connectivity gaps that have long hindered education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. By deploying Starlink’s cutting-edge technology, Bitget aims to empower these communities with reliable internet access, laying the groundwork for future blockchain education and financial inclusion.

For years, Siargao’s residents have relied on fragile microwave radio connections, leaving them vulnerable to frequent outages, slow speeds, and exclusion from the digital economy. Schools like Espoir, which serves underprivileged children, struggle with offline-only learning, while villages like Barangay Pitogo face isolation due to unreliable communication networks. "Without stable internet, entire communities are locked out of modern education, remote work, and even basic services like telemedicine. This isn’t just about connectivity, it’s about equity. Internet access shouldn’t be a privilege, it’s the foundation for everything from education to decentralized finance. We’re building doors to the digital world one island at a time," said Vugar Usi Zade, COO at Bitget.

The program’s first phase includes a Starlink hardware installations at Espoir School and Barangay Pitogo’s public school. This will provide six months of high-speed satellite internet, enabling access to online curricula, teacher training, and e-governance tools. With this, Bitget plans to provide long-term support through $10M Blockchain 4 Youth and $10M Blockchain 4 Her initiatives, which will introduce blockchain literacy and digital finance skills to students and women-led cooperatives. The total investment of 155,400 Philippine pesos, which covers hardware, subscriptions, and logistics. A modest cost for transformative impact.

Bitget’s initiative shows a growing recognition in the crypto industry: Adoption starts with access. By addressing infrastructure barriers first, the exchange is creating a replicable model for other underserved regions. Future phases could expand to neighboring islands, leveraging partnerships with local NGOs and government units.

The Starlink kits will go live in May, with Bitget documenting the rollout through impact reports and community stories. For Espoir’s students, the change will be immediate: interactive lessons, global collaborations, and soon blockchain workshops. For Barangay Pitogo, it’s a leap toward resilient communication during typhoon seasons.

As Bitget scales this program, the message is clear: crypto’s future isn’t just about markets, it’s about people. And sometimes, changing lives starts with something as simple as an internet signal.

itel Launches the A90: “The Durable Champion” of Budget Smartphones

In a bold leap forward for the budget smartphone category, itel officially unveils the A90, a feature-packed device that merges resilience, performance, and personal style. Branded as “The Durable Champion,” the A90 is engineered with the practical needs and colorful personality of the modern Filipino in mind.

As Filipino consumers become more conscious about their tech investments, durability and dependability have become non-negotiables. The itel A90 answers this call with a perfect blend of innovation and toughness, introduced with the promise of being “Truly Durable & Colorful.”

Built to Last, Styled to Stand Out

At the core of the A90 is a strong commitment to everyday reliability. Featuring an IP54-rated water and dust resistance, this smartphone is ready to face the unpredictable weather, dusty commutes, and urban hustle of daily life in the Philippines. Plus, with an anti-drop case included, accidental slips are no longer a nightmare.

Visually, the A90 comes alive in four vibrant colorways—empowering users to express themselves boldly without compromising on performance.

Reliable Features for Real-Life Conditions

The A90 doesn’t stop at looks and protection. It brings user-first features like wet and oily touch functionality, ensuring usability even when your hands are greasy or it’s raining outside.

With a 24-month warranty and a 36-month No Lag Guarantee, itel reinforces its commitment to long-term value—something rarely seen in its price segment.

Strong Inside and Out

Inside, the A90 boasts a 6.6” Dynamic Display with a 90Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals perfect for streaming or gaming. Its 5,000mAh battery with 15W fast charging keeps you powered through your busy days.

Capture every moment with a 13MP Super HDR Camera, and enjoy seamless performance thanks to optimized RAM and ROM with Atom Storage 2.0. Enhanced with DTS-powered audio and itel AI, the experience is as intelligent as it is immersive.

More Than a Smartphone—A Lifestyle Tool

The itel A90 reflects the spirit of the Filipino: matibay, maaasahan, at makulay. With top-tier durability and a vibrant design, it sets a new standard for what an affordable smartphone should be.

Availability:
The itel A90 will be available starting April 29, 2025, exclusively on Shopee before rolling out to other retailers nationwide. SRP to be announced soon.

Load for Every Juan Smart, Juanhand Team Up for Customer Convenience

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and leading digital lending platform JuanHand have teamed up to offer one more way for every Juan to get Smart prepaid load.

This new touchpoint will enable Smart customers to conveniently top-up their prepaid load using JuanHand credits or loans, enabling cash-challenged customers to continue enjoying Smart's services.

"This collaboration with JuanHand is perfectly aligned with Smart's drive to keep expanding access to our services. By integrating our prepaid load offerings with JuanHand's digital lending platform, we are making connectivity more accessible to our subscribers," said Lloyd Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart.

Smart’s extensive nationwide coverage ensures reliable and high-quality mobile services for millions of Filipinos. Smart continues to see growth in 5G devices amid continued network upgrades to expand 5G connectivity as of end-2024. Smart's combined 5G/4G network covers around 97% of the population.

"We are excited to partner with Smart to provide our users with a convenient and cost-effective way to purchase prepaid load. This partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing the digital financial experience for Filipinos and supporting their connectivity needs," said Francisco Roberto Mauricio, CEO of JuanHand.

JuanHand is the leading digital lending platform dedicated to providing Filipinos with quick and easy access to financial services. Through its user-friendly app, JuanHand offers loans and credits that can be used for various purposes, including purchasing prepaid load, making it a valuable partner in enhancing the digital lifestyle of its users.

This partnership is aligned with PLDT’s mission to contribute to the country's achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.