PLDT and Smart Boost Bohol Network, Fire Up 11 New Sites

PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continues to expand its 4G/LTE network in Bohol with 11 new sites activated in the municipalities of Maribojoc and Antequera. This expansion supports the PLDT Group’s commitment to advancing the government’s digitalization thrust and improving connectivity across the country.

Maribojoc and Antequera play important roles in Bohol’s economy and cultural heritage. Maribojoc serves as a key fisheries hub and is home to ecotourism destinations that showcase the town’s rich coastal and inland resources. Meanwhile, Antequera is renowned for its basket-weaving industry, which provides livelihood opportunities for local communities while preserving traditional craftsmanship and cultural identity.

This latest network rollout enhances connectivity and communication services for Smart and its value brand TNT and is expected to boost livelihood, tourism, education, and disaster resilience in these Bohol towns.

“For a long time, connectivity has been a challenge in some parts of these municipalities. With the activation of these new sites, we are enabling our constituents to stay connected, supporting their daily activities, livelihoods, and access to online education for our learners in time for the opening of classes. We thank Smart for supporting our digitalization efforts in the district,” said Bohol 1st District Representative John Geesnell “Baba” Yap.

Among those benefiting from the improved network is Monina Dela Cruz, 40, a sari-sari store owner from Barangay Bantolinao in Antequera and a newly onboarded Smart Ka-partner retailer. “Because of the improved signal in our area, I now have an additional source of income. I’m thankful for this opportunity and to be able to help my neighbors with their load needs,” she said.

Beyond providing livelihood opportunities, Dela Cruz also highlighted the importance of reliable connectivity during emergencies and natural disasters, enabling residents to seek assistance, communicate with loved ones, and access critical information when needed.

Katherine Bustaliño, a barangay councilor from Barangay Lagtangan in Maribojoc, also expressed her gratitude for this network expansion. “This will greatly benefit our community. Whether for work, school, or business, we can now stay connected more easily through Smart and TNT’s enhanced connectivity and value-packed offers,” she said.

“As a telco company, our mission is to connect every Filipino. We want places like Antequera and Maribojoc to be more visible, not only across Bohol, but to the rest of the country and the world. We hope residents make the most of these new cell sites, and it is truly heartening to see the appreciation and support from the communities we serve,” said Debbie Hu, FVP and Group Head of Smart Wireless Network.

Smart’s continued investments in its network infrastructure are aligned with the PLDT Group's efforts to deliver reliable and high-quality service to its customers. This also supports PLDT and Smart’s commitment to helping the country achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly UNSDG No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.