PLDT, Smart Expand Barangay-Based Campaign vs Cable Theft Nationwide

Building on the momentum of their telco infrastructure protection campaign, PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) are expanding their barangay-based asset protection initiative nationwide, reaching more communities across the Philippines. First launched in Makati City, the initiative has now been rolled out in Pangasinan, Davao, and Cebu, with more areas to follow soon.

Spearheaded by PLDT Group’s Asset Protection and Security Risk Governance (APSRG) Group, in partnership with local government units and police, the initiative is part of the telco leader’s broader response to persistent theft and vandalism targeting its network. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 loss incidents were recorded, mostly involving copper cables, which made up 91% of the total cost of material losses. In certain areas in Manila, theft occurs as often as every three days.

But worse than material losses, such attacks also affect customers by disrupting services, leading to complaints and revenue loss. As such, the program aims to not just deter theft and vandalism but also empower residents with tools and knowledge to protect their communities, both physically and digitally.

“Protecting telco infrastructure is not just about keeping the network running; it’s about enabling progress,” said Butch G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer. “When we secure our infrastructure, we help keep schools connected, livelihoods moving, and local economies growing. This initiative is part of our larger commitment to digital inclusion and nation-building.”

Leo A. Gonzales, Vice President and Head of Property, Facilities, and Asset Resiliency Management at PLDT and Smart, underscored the importance of working with barangays for this endeavor: “Nationwide grassroots collaboration plays a critical role in jointly protecting our network assets. By working closely with barangays across the nation, we are reinforcing our ability to safeguard the network on the ground and ensure service continuity for the communities we serve.”

“Local partnerships are vital in enhancing our on-the-ground response to threats against our towers, network equipment, and fiber lines, to name a few. These collaborations not only deter theft and vandalism but also empower communities to take an active role in protecting the services they rely on every day,” said Col. Wilfredo F. Gonio, Head of PLDT and Smart’s Security Central Command & Administration Center, APSRG. "We look forward to working with more barangays to achieve this common goal."

Nationwide rollout: Dagupan, Davao, Cebu

In Dagupan City, the rollout was led by APSRG North Luzon Asset Protection Division (NLAPD), through its head Jose Rainier Mendoza, in coordination with Brgy Mayombo barangay captain Arsenio “Armie” Curameng and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Dagupan.

Meanwhile, in Davao City, the initiative was rolled out in Barangay Baliok, led by Jose Carlos G. Oliver, Head of the Asset Protection Operations Center (APOC), and Nepthali S. Cabanos, Head of Mindanao Asset Protection, alongside teams from Mindanao Relations, PLDT Home Sales, and Smart Device Partners.

In Cebu, over 100 people joined the campaign led by Nicomedes Juezan, Jr., APSRG Visayas Head, in cooperation with Brgy San Vicente, Liloan, and barangay captain Victor Comendador.

Participants — barangay officials, security personnel, and residents — learned how to report incidents via PLDT Security Hotline 164, the basics of the Anti-Fencing Law, and digital safety through PLDT and Smart’s #BeCyberSmart campaign. Real-life scam cases and online threat scenarios were shared to help them better protect themselves, their families, and their communities.

PLDT and Smart also turned over security kits containing flashlights, batons, raincoats, reflective gear, and Smart prepaid cards to support barangay patrol units. Company representatives were on-site to assist residents with connectivity and service-related concerns.

Beyond infrastructure protection, the initiative aligns with the PLDT Group’s broader push for inclusive progress through technology. Ongoing investments in connectivity, digital services, and innovation improve Filipinos’ quality of life by enabling meaningful interactions, wider access to information, and greater digital participation nationwide.

PLDT’s network enhancements also strengthen the capacity and reliability of essential services such as education, healthcare, public safety, and livelihoods, especially in underserved areas. By expanding network coverage and advancing digital education efforts, PLDT and Smart help build stronger, more resilient communities, supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.