PLDT Group Supports DICT’s Push for Enhanced Internet for Filipinos

PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have reiterated their support for the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) following its latest statement highlighting improved affordability and better value in internet services nationwide.

“With the DICT leading the charge toward a more digitally empowered Philippines, the PLDT Group remains committed to doing our part to deliver faster, more reliable, and more affordable connectivity for all Filipinos,” says Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and the Group’s representative at the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“The progress we are seeing today - lower data prices, enhanced fiber speeds, and programs like connectivity for Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) - shows what can be achieved when we work together with a shared purpose,” Jimenez adds.

Beyond supporting the DICT’s call for more accessible internet, the PLDT Group continues to advance key initiatives that expand digital inclusion. These include sustained network investments to strengthen fiber connectivity, as well as enhance the delivery of wireless services.

“Over the last six years, we have seen a dramatic decline in the price of our data packages, even as we enhance our offers with more data while keeping the same prices. Back in 2019, our 1GB of data via Giga Surf 50 cost Php 50. Today, with Saya All 50, our subs enjoy 3 GB of data, 3GB of FB, and 3GB of TikTok for a total of 9GB for only 50 pesos,” said Lloyd Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart.

PLDT also actively contributes to government-led programs such as the Bayanihan SIM project and public-sector connectivity initiatives, primarily implemented by its corporate business unit, PLDT Enterprise. Through its ICT arm, ePLDT Inc., the Group supports nation-building initiatives and future-ready digital infrastructure. This includes platforms like Pilipinas Cloud and Pilipinas AI, all designed to empower enterprises, government, and communities with secure, scalable, and cutting-edge solutions.

For data center arm VITRO Inc., this year’s launch of VITRO Santa Rosa - the country’s largest and first AI-ready hyperscaler campus - enables international hyperscalers and cloud providers to invest locally, positioning the Philippines as a competitive hub for global cloud, AI, and digital services.

PLDT’s support for the government's digital initiatives underscores the Group's commitment to national development through strategic partnerships that expand digital access and help improve the delivery of essential services. This also contributes to the PLDT Group’s endeavors to help the country achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.